What Does the Term “Tsundere” Mean?

Last updated on September 11, 2024 by Isabella Claire

If you are not familiar with the world of anime, then you are most likely not familiar with the slang term “tsundere.” Have you heard this term mentioned somewhere and it led you here in an effort to educate yourself about its meaning. If that is the case, then your curiosity has led you to just the right page.

Tsundere Meaning and Origin

Key Takeaways

  • Tsundere refers to a character development process in Japanese anime and manga that involves an initially cold personality evolving into a warmer, friendlier one.
  • The term originates from the combination of Japanese phrases, “tsun tsun” (turning away in disgust) and “dere dere” (becoming infatuated).
  • Tsundere characters are memorable and dynamic, adding depth to storytelling and resonating with audiences across various genres.
Tsundere Meaning
Tsundere Meaning – Created by 7ESL

Tsundere Meaning

Tsundere is a Japanese term used to describe a character development process, often found in anime and manga, where a person initially displays a cold or hostile attitude before gradually revealing a warmer and friendlier nature. The use of the term is more common in the context of fictional characters, but it can be applied to real life personalities as well.

A tsundere character typically starts with a cold or hostile demeanor, often displaying irritation, sarcasm, or even outright disdain towards another character, usually someone they secretly have feelings for. Over time, however, their “dere” side emerges, showing that beneath their tough exterior, they are actually kind-hearted, caring, or even romantically interested.

Origin of this Term

The term tsundere comes from the combination of two Japanese words: “tsun tsun” (meaning to turn away in disgust) and “dere dere” (meaning to become lovey-dovey or lovestruck). It has its origins in Japanese bishōjo games, a type of video game centered on interactions with attractive female characters, and grew in popularity due to the otaku moe phenomenon. Some notable examples of tsundere characters are found in works such as “Kimi ga Nozomu Eien” and various maid cafés’ themes.

Related Terms to Tsundere

There are several other terms closely related to tsundere, each describing a particular personality archetype:

  • Yandere: A character who is initially sweet and loving but becomes dangerously obsessive, often resorting to violence when protecting their love interest.
  • Dandere: A character who is timid and shy but opens up and becomes more sociable around people they are comfortable with or when certain conditions are met.
  • Kuudere: A character who is cold and emotionally reserved, yet experiences moments of warmth and care for their loved ones, usually in times of need.

It is important to note that while these terms primarily describe female characters, male tsundere and other variations exist and can be found in various forms of media, such as novels and mass media. The popularity of these archetypes highlights the complexities of human emotions and relationships, revealing how seemingly distant individuals can evolve into tender, loving partners.

Synonyms for the Term

There are several American phrases that you could use to substitute for this Japanese term that means the same thing. Some of the alternative phrases you could use include:

  • warm up to somebody
  • grow on someone
  • well-disguised heart of gold
  • Cold-hearted
  • Icy
  • Aloof
  • Frosty
  • Unapproachable
  • Standoffish
  • Unfriendly
  • Resistant
  • Unyielding
  • Obstinate
  • Stubborn
  • Difficult
  • Uncooperative
  • Hard to get along with
  • Hostile
  • Antagonistic
  • Defensive
  • Guarded
  • Wary
  • Suspicious

Tsundere Examples

A text conversation between two friends.

  • Friend 1: I used to not like Sandra.
  • Friend 2: Why not?
  • Friend 1: When she first started here she seemed cold and, quite frankly, bitchy.
  • Friend 2: That’s surprising considering how she acts now.
  • Friend 1: Yeah, she is a true tsundere.

An online conversation between forum users.

  • User 1: Question time! Who is everyone’s favorite tsundere?
  • User 2: My favorite is Kaname Chidori from the show Full Metal Panic.
  • User 3: Mine is from Fate/stay night: Unlimited Blade Works. It is Rin Tohsaka.
  • User 1: All awesome choices! Mine would have to be Maki Nishikino from Love Live!
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