Have you ever wondered why the car brand Subaru is called Subaru? Or maybe you’re curious about the Japanese meaning behind the word?
If you’re a car enthusiast, language lover, or someone who just loves learning cool facts about names, this guide is perfect for you. Many people know Subaru as a car, but few know its rich Japanese origin.
In this article, we’ll explain what Subaru means in Japanese, explore its cultural significance, show real-life examples of usage, and even include a mini quiz to test your knowledge. By the end, you’ll understand the meaning and why the brand chose this iconic name.
Quick Answer:
Subaru (スバル) is the Japanese word for “unite” or “come together,” and it’s also used to refer to the Pleiades star cluster. The car brand chose this name to symbolize unity and connection.
🧠 What Does Subaru Mean in Japanese?
Subaru (スバル) has two main meanings in Japanese:
- Literal Meaning: To unite or come together
- Astronomical Meaning: Refers to the Pleiades star cluster, a group of stars in the Taurus constellation.
The car brand Subaru uses the Pleiades stars in its logo to represent the merger of six companies that formed the modern Subaru company.
Example Sentence:
“The name Subaru represents unity among the companies, just like the stars in the Pleiades cluster.”
In short:
Subaru = Unite / Pleiades star cluster = Symbol of connection and unity
🌍 Where Is Subaru Used?
Contexts where Subaru appears:
- 🚗 Car branding – iconic Subaru cars and logo
- 🌌 Astronomy – Japanese references to the Pleiades cluster
- 🎌 Cultural references – poems, literature, or Japanese names
- 🌐 Online discussions – anime, cars, or language forums
Tone:
- Formal when used in astronomy or literature
- Casual when referring to the car brand or general conversation
💬 Examples of Subaru in Use
- A: Did you know Subaru means “unite” in Japanese?
B: Wow, I had no idea! - A: Look at the Subaru logo; it represents the Pleiades cluster.
B: That’s so cool! I love how symbolic it is. - A: My favorite car brand is Subaru.
B: Makes sense, the name means unity and stars! - A: I saw the Pleiades in the sky last night.
B: That’s called Subaru in Japanese, right?
🕓 When to Use & When NOT to Use Subaru
✅ When to Use Subaru
- Talking about cars, especially Subaru models
- Discussing astronomy or the Pleiades
- Learning Japanese vocabulary or cultural references
- Writing about Japanese symbolism
❌ When Not to Use Subaru
- Casual slang unrelated to Japan or cars
- Misinterpreting it as a common word outside context
- In professional contexts unrelated to automobiles or astronomy
📊 Comparison Table
| Context | Example Phrase | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Car Enthusiast | “I love my Subaru Outback” | Brand context |
| Astronomy | “Subaru represents the Pleiades cluster” | Accurate cultural meaning |
| Japanese Language | “Subaru means unite in Japanese” | Linguistic reference |
| Online Forums | “Subaru’s logo shows six stars” | Educational & interesting |
| Casual Talk | “I saw Subaru stars tonight” | Informal, descriptive |
🔄 Similar Japanese Words or Names
| Word | Meaning | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Hoshi | Star | Astronomy or symbolic usage |
| Tsubasa | Wings | Names, symbolism |
| Kagayaku | Shine / Glitter | Poetic or descriptive |
| Mitsuboshi | Three stars | Symbolic references |
| Hikari | Light | Common in names or phrases |
FAQs About Subaru
1. What does Subaru mean in Japanese?
It means unite or come together, and it also refers to the Pleiades star cluster.
2. Why did the car company choose the name Subaru?
The name represents the merger of six companies, symbolized by the Pleiades stars in the logo.
3. Is Subaru a common Japanese word?
Yes, it can be used literally to mean unite, but it’s mostly recognized through branding and astronomy.
4. Can Subaru refer to stars in Japan?
Yes, it refers specifically to the Pleiades star cluster, called Subaru in Japanese.
5. Where can I see the word Subaru outside cars?
In literature, poetry, anime, astronomy, and Japanese cultural references.
🎯 Mini Quiz – Test Your Knowledge
1. What does Subaru literally mean in Japanese?
a) Star cluster
b) Unite ✅
c) Sky
2. What star cluster is called Subaru in Japanese?
a) Orion
b) Pleiades ✅
c) Big Dipper
3. Why is Subaru used as a car brand name?
a) It’s short and catchy
b) Symbolizes the merger of six companies ✅
c) Random choice
4. True or False: Subaru only refers to cars in Japan.
❌ False – also used in language, culture, and astronomy
5. How many stars are represented in the Subaru logo?
a) 6 ✅
b) 7
c) 5
📝 Conclusion
Subaru is more than just a car brand. In Japanese, it means “unite” and refers to the Pleiades star cluster, symbolizing connection, harmony, and the merger of six companies. Whether you’re a car fan, language enthusiast, or astronomy lover, understanding Subaru gives you insight into Japanese culture, symbolism, and branding.
