Posted 30 April 2015 - 12:52 AM
Okay, to explain - "nii" (pronounce those i's as a long e) - older brother, often used outside of actual family as well. "Onii" implies more respect, with the "o" tacked on at the beginning. "Sama" is like a step higher than "san," which can be used in place of Ms, Mrs, Mr, etc. An honorific, pretty much. Used at the end of a name, instead of the beginning. "Onii-sama" basically is a really respectful way to call someone male and older than yourself, but within the sibling age usually. You probably wouldn't use this on someone twenty years older than yourself.
Also, "nii" can be used as its own honorific at the end of a name. Like say the meaning of "Sympa-nii" should be easy enough to understand. Likewise, "nee" (pronounced "neh," mind you) means older sister. I could probably refer to you as "Elfie-nee," if I saw fit.
Onto "senpai," it can be standalone or an honorific as seen fit, and basically means upperclassman, senior, or mentor. It can convey respect, or be entirely neutral, depending on your attitude.
I may've missed something, but that's the general gist of it.
On a sidenote, pale skin is fucking beautiful, in my opinion at least. That's why I don't mind being entirely unable to tan.
“The exchange went unnoticed by the world, just one
other of many exchanges between a multitude of
strangers, acquaintances, friends, or enemies all around.”