Japanese meaning of 老若男女
Reading:
ろうにゃくなんにょ (rounyaku nan-n yo)
English Translation:
Men and women of all ages
Meaning & Cultural Context
Meaning:
An inclusive, set-phrase meaning “people of all ages and genders”; signals universal accessibility.
Cultural Context:
Common in public notices, tourism, and product copy. Functions as a shorthand for inclusivity in Japanese messaging.
年齢も性別も問わない「誰もが対象」であることを示す慣用句。
告知・観光・商品コピーで頻出。日本語のインクルーシブ表現として便利な定型句。
Grammar & Learning Points
Grammar Point
• Noun phrase with “を問わず” or “が集まる” to describe people of all ages and genders (“老若男女を問わず”).
• Often used in event promotion or inclusivity statements.
Trap for English Speakers
Might be taken as “old and young” only, but it covers all people without restriction.
Example
Basic Example
老若男女が参加できるイベントを企画した。
We planned an event that anyone, young or old, can join.
Applied Example
老若男女が祭りに集まり、賑わいを見せた。
People of all ages and genders gathered at the festival, creating a lively scene.