しょうねん少年shounen
1.

A male individual typically categorized by age, ranging from elementary school students to high school students, and in a broader sense could include females, especially in legal contexts where it refers to individuals under twenty years of age.

2.

An individual in the early stages of life, characterized by youthfulness and often associated with innocence and development, being in a transitional phase before adulthood.

3.

A term that encompasses the concept of young males who are still growing and maturing, often reflecting their emotional and social characteristics distinct from older adolescents and adults.

4.

In legal and educational contexts, it denotes a young male who may require special protection or rehabilitation, often involved in juvenile justice systems aimed at correction and guidance.

Example:

少年は木に自分の名前を刻んだ。

しょうねんしょうじょ少年少女shounenshoujo
1.

A term that collectively refers to young individuals in their formative years, typically encompassing both male and female gender identities, emphasizing their youthful characteristics and experiences.

2.

Describes adolescents or young people who are in the transition phase between childhood and adulthood, highlighting their evolving identities, interests, and social roles.

3.

Refers to the youthful demographic that embodies innocence, playfulness, and the journey of self-discovery during their teenage years.

Example:

全ての少年少女はコロンブスを知っています。

せいしょうねん青少年seishounen
1.

A term that encompasses individuals in the transitional age group between childhood and adulthood, typically ranging from approximately 12 to the mid-20s, including both males and females.

2.

Refers to the collective group of young individuals, often characterized by their development, vitality, and social dynamics as they navigate the journey towards maturity.

Example:

私には青少年の心理がわからない。

びしょうねん美少年bishounen
1.

A young boy characterized by strikingly attractive facial features and overall appearance, often evoking a sense of youthful beauty.

2.

A term used to describe a boy whose looks are considered exceptionally charming or aesthetically pleasing, typically implying a delicate or refined beauty.

3.

A youth whose physical attractiveness transcends ordinary beauty, often associated with elegance and grace in both looks and demeanor.

しょうねんいん少年院shounen'in
1.

A government-run facility where young individuals deemed to have engaged in delinquent behavior are housed and provided with corrective education, following a decision made by a family court as a protective measure, rather than facing criminal charges.

2.

An institutional setting focused on rehabilitating youths who have committed offenses, offering structured programs aimed at fostering positive behavior and social skills, typically for those under the age of 20.

3.

A dedicated center designed to reform and educate boys and girls sent there for behavioral issues, encompassing various types such as primary, secondary, special, and medical reform schools, all aimed at facilitating their reintegration into society.