The Reason Why Sanji Calls Nami with “San” and Robin with “Chan”
Sanji, the chivalrous cook of the Straw Hat Pirates, has an intriguing way of addressing his female crewmates. Despite Robin being older than Nami, Sanji refers to them using different honorifics: “Nami-san” and “Robin-chan”. But why this distinction? Let’s delve into the reason behind Sanji’s peculiar choice.
According to Eiichiro Oda, the creator of One Piece, Sanji’s behavior stems from a subtle understanding of women’s feelings. Imagine this: as women age, some desire to be treated as young girls, while others yearn to be seen as adults. Sanji seems to grasp this delicate balance. By addressing Nami with the respectful “-san”, he acknowledges her maturity. Meanwhile, for Robin, he uses the more endearing “-chan”, perhaps emphasizing her youthful spirit despite her age.
Question: Oda-Sensei, After I started watching One Piece, I thought of it all the time, but why is Sanji addressing Nami with “San“and Robin with“Chan”? Yet it is Robin who’s the elder!! Is there any deep meaning behind it!?
Oda: Well I actually didn’t think anything of it. Before there was a staff member in our workplace who asked us something interesting. The wish to treat a woman older than you as if she was younger, and a woman younger than you as if she was more of an adult….Is Sanji acquainted with this feeling? I replied, “O, Of course. That is right”
In essence, Sanji’s actions reflect his respect for women, even amidst his flirtatious tendencies. So, whether it’s cooking up a storm or navigating the Grand Line, Sanji’s chivalry remains intact!
