English Translation
If you recognize this person, call 110!
I’d love to know the history or cultural context behind the phrase ピンとくる。What is a ピン？ And why does one “get it” when the ピン comes?
@ericaw
There is no history or cultural context. ピン is just a type of onomatopoeias. We basically have two types: 擬音語 (ぎおんご) and 擬態語 (ぎたいご) although some detail-oriented linguists categorize Japanese onomatopoeias into up to five types. ピン is one of 擬態語 so as キラキラ (twinkling or shiny) and ぐちゃぐちゃ (messy).
ピン is often used in the following context:
- シーツをピンと張った。= I stretched a flat bed sheet tight.
- 会議場では空気がピンと張り詰めていた。= People in the meeting room were nervous. (And I could feel it from the “atmosphere”.)
- あなたの意見は正直、ピンとこない。= To be honest, your opinion doesn’t make sense/doesn’t look feasible. (Or, your opinion doesn’t ring a bell.)
- トムは背筋をピンと張って、椅子に腰掛けていた。= Tom was sitting on a chair with his back straight.
- 私の祖父は100歳だが、ピンピンしてる。= Although my grandfather is 100 years old, he is still energetic and active (with no significant health issues.)
The image of ピン is a taut string. ピン is used physically and mentally.