日本語(Japanese)

/kenpō/

日本の最高法規で、政府の仕組みと国民の権利を定める。

Constitution

/minshushugi/

市民が選挙を通じて政治に参加する制度。

Democracy

/seigi/

Fair and impartial administration of law.

/kokkai/

日本の国会は衆議院と参議院から構成される。

Parliament / Diet

/kihonteki jinken/

憲法で保障された国民の基本的な権利。

Fundamental Human Rights

/saikō saibansho/

The highest court in Japan, final interpreter of the Constitution.

/keizai/

国における生産・消費・流通の仕組み。

Economy

/zeikin/

Compulsory payment collected by government.

/infure/

Sustained rise in general price levels.

/GDP/

Total value of goods and services produced in Japan in a year.

/senkyo/

Formal process of selecting representatives.

/fuhai/

Abuse of power for personal gain.

/kyōiku/

Process of acquiring knowledge and skills.

/kenkō/

State of physical and mental well-being.

/nōgyō/

Practice of farming and cultivation.

/sangyō/

Economic activity involving manufacturing.

/jiyū/

The power to act and speak without restraint.

/byōdō/

Equal rights and opportunities for all.

/kankyō/

The natural world including air, water, and land.

/bunka/

The customs and achievements of a people.

/gengo/

A system of communication.

/rekishi/

The recorded past of human civilization.

/seiji/

Activities related to governance and power.

/yosan/

Annual financial plan of government.

/hinkon/

Insufficient income to meet basic needs.

/jinkō/

Total number of people in a region.

/shakai seigi/

Fair distribution of resources in society.

/shimin-ken/

Legal membership of a state.

/hatten/

Economic and social progress.

/kokka shuken/

Supreme authority of a state to govern itself.

/gaikō/

Management of international relations through negotiation.

/jōyaku/

A formal agreement between states.

/jinken/

Universal rights belonging to every person.

/jizoku kanōna kaihatsu/

Development meeting present needs without compromising the future.

/gurōbaruka/

Integration of world economies and cultures.

/inobēshon/

Introduction of new ideas and methods.

/gijutsu/

Application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes.

/kokusai rengō/

International organisation promoting peace and cooperation.

/kaikaku/

Changes aimed at improving a system.

/wahei/

Freedom from conflict; harmony.

/tayōsei/

Variety of cultures, languages, and traditions.

/shōshika/

日本における少子化は深刻な社会問題となっている。

Declining Birth Rate

/kōreika/

Increase in the proportion of elderly people; a key demographic challenge in Japan.

/bōeki/

The buying and selling of goods between countries.

/tōshi/

Allocation of resources to generate returns.

/shitsugyō/

State of lacking paid work while seeking employment.

/zaisei seisaku/

Government policy on taxation and expenditure.

/kin'yū seisaku/

Central bank policy controlling money supply and interest rates.

/kenpō kaisei/

Formal change to the Constitution.

/sankenpunritsu/

Division of government into legislative, executive, and judicial branches.

/konnichiwa/

A general greeting used during the daytime. It is the most common way to say hello in Japanese.

/ohayou gozaimasu/

A polite morning greeting used until around midday. The casual form is おはよう (ohayou).

/konbanwa/

A greeting used in the evening hours. It is the standard polite way to greet someone after dark.

/sayounara/

A farewell expression used when parting, often with a sense of finality. Casual partings more often use じゃあね (jaa ne).

/mata ne/

A casual farewell expression meaning "see you again." Used among friends and peers.

/arigatou gozaimasu/

The polite expression of gratitude. The casual form is ありがとう (arigatou).

/sumimasen/

A versatile phrase used to get someone's attention, apologize mildly, or express thanks. It is one of the most frequently used expressions in daily Japanese.

/gomen nasai/

A sincere apology used when you have done something wrong or inconvenienced someone.

/onegai shimasu/

Used when making a request or asking someone to do something. It expresses a humble and polite request.

/hai/

The standard affirmative response in Japanese. Also used to indicate you are listening or to answer the phone.

/iie/

The standard negative response in Japanese. In casual speech, いや (iya) or ううん (uun) are also used.

/hajimemashite/

Said when meeting someone for the first time. It is always followed by どうぞよろしくお願いします (pleased to meet you).

/wakarimasen/

Used to express that you do not understand something. The affirmative form わかります (wakarimasu) means "I understand."

/ogenki desu ka/

A polite inquiry about someone's well-being. The response is 元気です (genki desu), meaning "I am fine."

/itadakimasu/

Said before eating a meal to express gratitude for the food. It has no direct English equivalent and is a uniquely Japanese cultural expression.

/gochisousama deshita/

Said after finishing a meal to express gratitude. It is the post-meal counterpart to いただきます.

/irasshaimase/

A formal welcome phrase used by staff in shops, restaurants, and hotels to greet customers as they enter.

/omedetou gozaimasu/

Used to congratulate someone on an achievement, birthday, or special occasion. The casual form is おめでとう (omedetou).

/ichi/

The number one. In isolation or for counting, the reading is いち (ichi); in compound words it may be read differently.

/ni/

The number two. Used in counting and as part of compound numbers.

/san/

The number three. Considered a lucky number in some Japanese contexts.

/shi / yon/

The number four. It has two readings: し (shi) and よん (yon). し is avoided in some contexts as it sounds like 死 (death).

/go/

The number five. Used in everyday counting and as part of larger numbers.

/juu/

The number ten. Used as the base for forming numbers eleven through nineteen and as a multiplier.

/hyaku/

The number one hundred. Used to form larger numbers such as 200 (二百 nihyaku) and 300 (三百 sanbyaku).

/sen/

The number one thousand. In Japanese, large numbers are grouped by ten-thousands rather than thousands.

/ima/

Refers to the current moment in time. Commonly used in phrases like 今何時ですか (What time is it now?).

/kyou/

Refers to the current day. Note that this kanji combination can also be read as こんにち (konnichi) in certain compound words.

/kinou/

Refers to the day before today. Also read as さくじつ (sakujitsu) in formal or written Japanese.

/ashita/

Refers to the day after today. Can also be read as あす (asu) or みょうにち (myounichi) in formal contexts.

/asa/

The early part of the day, from dawn until noon. Often used in compound words like 朝食 (choushoku, breakfast).

/yuugata/

The period from late afternoon to early night, roughly 5 PM to 7 PM. Distinct from 夜 (yoru), which refers to nighttime.

/yoru/

The period of darkness from sunset to sunrise. Used in many expressions related to nighttime activities.

/shuu/

A period of seven days. Used in phrases like 先週 (senshu, last week), 今週 (konshuu, this week), and 来週 (raishuu, next week).

/tsuki / gatsu/

Means both "month" and "moon" in Japanese. When counting months, がつ (gatsu) is used (e.g., 一月 ichigatsu = January).

/nen / toshi/

A period of twelve months. Read as ねん (nen) when counting years and とし (toshi) when referring to age or a year more generally.

/okaasan/

The polite/respectful word for mother, used when referring to someone else's mother or addressing your own. The plain form is 母 (haha) when speaking about your own mother to others.

/otousan/

The polite/respectful word for father. Used when referring to someone else's father or addressing your own. The humble form 父 (chichi) is used when speaking about your own father to others.

/ryoushin/

Refers to both parents together. This is the humble form used when speaking about your own parents to people outside the family.

/oniisan/

The respectful term for an older brother. When referring to your own, you use 兄 (ani). Used also to address a young man respectfully.

/oneesan/

The respectful term for an older sister. When referring to your own, you use 姉 (ane). Also used to address a young woman respectfully.

/otouto/

Refers to a younger brother. Unlike older sibling terms, this word is used both when speaking to others about your own brother and in general reference.

/imouto/

Refers to a younger sister. Like 弟, it is used both in direct reference and when speaking to others.

/kodomo/

Refers to a child or children. The plural is implied by context; 子供たち (kodomotachi) explicitly means "children."

/akachan/

Refers to a baby or very young infant. The name comes from 赤 (aka, red) referring to a newborn's red skin.

/tomodachi/

A person with whom one has a bond of mutual affection. This is the common everyday word for friend among peers.

/hito/

The basic word for a person or human being. Also used as a counter suffix (り/にん) for counting people.

/sensei/

Used to address teachers, doctors, lawyers, and other respected professionals. Literally means "one who has gone before."

/gakusei/

Refers to a student, typically at the university level. Elementary and middle school students are called 生徒 (seito).

/douryou/

A person who works alongside you in the same organization. Used in professional contexts.

/otto/

The humble form used when referring to your own husband when speaking to others. To refer to someone else's husband, ご主人 (goshujin) is used.

/tsuma/

The humble form used when referring to your own wife when speaking to others. To refer to someone else's wife, 奥さん (okusan) is used.

/sofubo/

Refers to grandparents collectively. 祖父 (sofu) is grandfather and 祖母 (sobo) is grandmother when speaking humbly about your own.

/onamae wa nan desu ka/

A polite way to ask someone's name. The response is 〜と申します (to moushimasu) in formal speech or 〜です (desu) in casual speech.

/gohan/

Refers to cooked rice, but also used to mean a meal in general (e.g., 朝ご飯 = breakfast, 昼ご飯 = lunch, 晩ご飯 = dinner).

/sushi/

A Japanese dish consisting of vinegared rice topped or combined with various ingredients such as seafood, vegetables, and occasionally tropical fruits.

/raamen/

A Japanese noodle soup dish, originally from China. It consists of wheat noodles served in a broth, often topped with various ingredients.

/tenpura/

A Japanese dish of seafood or vegetables that have been battered and deep fried. Introduced to Japan by Portuguese missionaries in the 16th century.

/ocha/

Generally refers to Japanese green tea (緑茶, ryokucha). The honorific お (o) prefix is commonly used. A central part of Japanese culture.

/mizu/

The basic word for water. In restaurants, cold water is typically served free of charge in Japan, referred to as お水 (omizu).

/koohii/

Coffee, a widely popular drink in Japan. Japan has a strong café culture and is known for high-quality canned coffee.

/pan/

Borrowed from Portuguese "pão." Bread became popular in Japan during the Meiji era and is now a breakfast staple alongside rice.

/sakana/

Refers to fish as food or as an animal. Fish is a central component of Japanese cuisine and culture.

/niku/

Refers to meat in general. Beef (牛肉 gyuuniku), pork (豚肉 butaniku), and chicken (鶏肉 toriniku) are most common.

/yasai/

Refers to vegetables collectively. Japan has a rich tradition of vegetable-based dishes, especially in Buddhist cuisine (精進料理 shojin ryouri).

/kudamono/

Refers to fruit collectively. Japan is famous for its premium fruits, which are often given as high-end gifts.

/tamago/

Refers to an egg, especially a chicken egg used in cooking. Eggs are used extensively in Japanese cuisine, from ramen to rice dishes.

/gyuunyuu/

Refers to cow's milk. Became widely consumed in Japan after World War II as part of school lunch programs.

/nihonshu/

An alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice. It holds a central place in Japanese culture and religious ceremonies.

/hashi/

The traditional eating utensils used in Japan. There are many rules around proper chopstick etiquette in Japanese culture.

/resutoran/

A Western-style restaurant. Japanese-style restaurants are called 食堂 (shokudou) or 料理屋 (ryouriya).

/oishii/

Used to express that food tastes good. One of the most commonly used adjectives at mealtimes in Japan.

/menyuu/

A list of available dishes in a restaurant. Japanese restaurants often have plastic food displays (食品サンプル) to help customers choose.

/karai/

Describes food that is spicy or pungent in flavor. Note that 辛い can also be read as つらい (tsurai) meaning "painful/difficult" — the kanji has two meanings.

/eki/

A railway station. Japan has one of the most extensive and punctual train networks in the world, making the station a central hub of daily life.

/densha/

An electric train. The Japanese rail system is known for its precision, efficiency, and extensive coverage across the country.

/basu/

A large motor vehicle carrying passengers on a fixed route. Along with trains, buses are a primary form of public transportation in Japan.

/takushii/

A hired car with a driver. Japanese taxis are known for their cleanliness, white-gloved drivers, and automatic doors.

/kuukou/

A place where aircraft take off and land. Japan's main international airports are Narita (成田) and Haneda (羽田) near Tokyo.

/hoteru/

An establishment providing accommodation. Japan also has traditional inns called 旅館 (ryokan) and capsule hotels (カプセルホテル).

/ryokan/

A type of traditional Japanese inn featuring tatami rooms, futon bedding, communal baths, and multi-course Japanese meals.

/chizu/

A visual representation of an area. In Japan, detailed local maps are widely available and many train stations have large map displays.

/michi/

Refers to a road, street, or path. Also used metaphorically to mean a way or method, as in 茶道 (sadou, the way of tea).

/machi/

Refers to a town or neighborhood. Smaller than 市 (shi, city) but larger than 村 (mura, village).

/toshi/

A large urban settlement. Tokyo (東京) is both the capital and the largest city in Japan with a metropolitan population exceeding 35 million.

/nihon / nippon/

The island nation of Japan. The name means "origin of the sun." Both にほん (nihon) and にっぽん (nippon) are correct readings.

/jinja/

A place of worship in the Shinto religion. Characterized by torii gates, Japan has over 80,000 shrines across the country.

/otera/

A place of worship in the Buddhist religion. Japan has approximately 77,000 Buddhist temples, many of which are major tourist attractions.

/onsen/

A natural hot spring and the bathing facility that uses it. Onsen bathing is a deeply ingrained part of Japanese culture and relaxation.

/yama/

A large natural elevation of earth. Japan's most famous mountain is Mount Fuji (富士山 Fujisan), the country's highest peak at 3,776 meters.

/umi/

The large body of salt water surrounding Japan. As an island nation, the sea plays a central role in Japanese culture, cuisine, and history.

/kippu/

A ticket, especially for trains or buses. The more modern word チケット (chiketto) is also used for event tickets.

/sakura/

The flower of the cherry tree, a national symbol of Japan. The annual cherry blossom viewing (花見 hanami) is a beloved cultural tradition.

/hana/

The reproductive structure of a flowering plant. Japan has a strong tradition of flower arrangement (生け花 ikebana) and flower appreciation.

/ki/

Refers to a tree or wood as a material. Japan is heavily forested, with approximately 68% of its land area covered by forests.

/kawa/

A natural watercourse flowing to the sea, a lake, or another river. Rivers are central to Japanese geography and many cities developed along them.

/sora/

The region of the atmosphere seen from the earth. Also means "empty" when read as から (kara) or くう (kuu).

/taiyou/

The star at the center of our solar system. Japan is known as the "Land of the Rising Sun," and the sun appears on the Japanese flag.

/kumo/

A visible mass of condensed water vapor floating in the atmosphere. Japanese weather vocabulary is rich due to Japan's varied climate.

/ame/

Water falling from clouds in drops. Japan has a rainy season called 梅雨 (tsuyu) that occurs in June-July in most parts of the country.

/kaze/

Movement of air. Note that 風 (kaze) also means "cold" (illness), as in 風邪をひく (kaze wo hiku, to catch a cold).

/yuki/

Frozen precipitation in the form of snowflakes. Northern Japan (Hokkaido) receives some of the heaviest snowfall in the world.

/haru/

The season between winter and summer. Associated with cherry blossoms, new beginnings, and the Japanese academic/fiscal year start in April.

/natsu/

The hottest season of the year. Japanese summers are hot and humid, featuring festivals (matsuri), fireworks (hanabi), and the Obon holiday.

/aki/

The season between summer and winter. Celebrated for colorful autumn leaves (紅葉 kouyou), harvest festivals, and pleasant temperatures.

/fuyu/

The coldest season of the year. Japanese winters vary greatly by region, from snow-heavy Hokkaido to mild Okinawa.

/niwa/

A cultivated outdoor space. Japanese garden design (日本庭園 nihon teien) is renowned worldwide for its careful aesthetics, featuring stones, water, and carefully pruned trees.

/atama/

The upper part of the body. Used in phrases like 頭が痛い (atama ga itai, I have a headache) and 頭がいい (atama ga ii, smart/intelligent).

/kao/

The front of the head. Also used in many idiomatic expressions, such as 顔が広い (kao ga hiroi, well-connected/knowing many people).

/me/

The organ of sight. Used in many compounds and expressions such as 目標 (mokuhyou, goal/target) and 目立つ (medatsu, to stand out).

/mimi/

The organ of hearing and balance. Used in expressions like 耳が遠い (mimi ga tooi, hard of hearing) and 耳を傾ける (to listen carefully).

/kuchi/

The opening in the lower half of the face used for eating and speaking. Has many compound words such as 入口 (iriguchi, entrance).

/te/

The end part of the arm. Used extensively in compounds and idioms: 手伝う (tetsudau, to help), 上手 (jouzu, skilled), 下手 (heta, unskilled).

/ashi/

Refers to both the foot and the leg. Context determines the precise meaning. Used in phrases like 足が痛い (ashi ga itai, my leg/foot hurts).

/ude/

The upper limb of the body. Also used metaphorically to mean skill or ability, as in 腕を磨く (ude wo migaku, to hone one's skills).

/kokoro/

Refers to the mind, heart, or spirit rather than the physical organ (which is 心臓 shinzou). A central concept in Japanese culture expressing emotions and inner life.

/byouin/

A medical institution. Japan has universal healthcare and hospitals are widely accessible. Not to be confused with 美容院 (biyouin, beauty salon), which sounds similar.

/kusuri/

Refers to medication or medicine used to treat illness. Japan has extensive pharmacy chains (薬局 yakkyoku) widely available in cities.

/itami/

Physical or emotional discomfort. The adjective form 痛い (itai) means "painful" and is one of the first words learners pick up.

/tsukare/

A state of physical or mental exhaustion. The phrase お疲れ様です (otsukaresama desu) is a common workplace greeting acknowledging someone's hard work.

/suimin/

The natural state of rest. The verb form is 眠る (nemuru) or 寝る (neru). Japan is known for a culture of overwork that often leads to sleep deprivation.

/undou/

Physical activity for health or sport. Also means a movement or campaign in a social/political context.

/shigoto/

Refers to one's work, job, or occupation. Japan has a strong work culture, and phrases like 仕事が大好き (I love work) are common.

/kaisha/

A commercial business organization. Japanese company culture (kaisha bunka) is distinctive, characterized by group harmony, seniority, and loyalty.

/kaigi/

A formal gathering for discussion or decision-making. Japan is known for its extensive meeting culture, often involving thorough consensus-building (根回し nemawashi).

/joushi/

A person in authority above one in the workplace hierarchy. Japanese workplace relationships are hierarchical, and showing proper respect to superiors is essential.

/kyuuryou/

Regular payment for work. Japan's seniority-based pay system (年功序列 nenkoujoretsu) traditionally increases salary with age and tenure.

/keiyaku/

A legally binding agreement between parties. In Japanese business, verbal agreements and relationships are also considered very important.

/meishi/

A small card with professional information. Exchanging business cards (名刺交換 meishi koukan) is an important ritual in Japanese business culture with specific etiquette.

/shimekiri/

The latest time or date by which something must be completed. Punctuality and meeting deadlines are highly valued in Japanese professional culture.

/meeru/

Electronic mail. In Japanese business communication, email (and increasingly messaging apps) are the primary means of business correspondence.

/purojekuto/

A planned undertaking with a specific goal. In Japanese workplaces, projects are often managed through a collaborative process called horenso (報・連・相).

/okyakusama/

A person who purchases goods or services. The honorific お〜様 (okyakusama) reflects Japan's high standard of customer service, expressed in the phrase お客様は神様 (the customer is god).

/houkokusho/

A formal document presenting information or findings. Reporting (報告 houkoku) is part of the essential business communication trio 報告・連絡・相談 (report, contact, consult).

/zangyou/

Work done beyond normal hours. Japan has historically had a culture of long working hours, though recent reforms (働き方改革 hatarakikata kaikaku) have aimed to reduce this.

/purezen/

A shortened form of プレゼンテーション (presentation). Used in business contexts to mean a formal or informal talk with visual aids.

/mensetsu/

A formal meeting to evaluate a job candidate. Japanese job interviews have distinct customs including formal attire (リクルートスーツ), bowing, and structured questioning.

/matsuri/

A public celebration or event, often tied to a Shinto shrine or seasonal tradition. Japanese festivals feature food stalls, traditional performances, and fireworks.

/hanabi/

Pyrotechnic displays used in celebrations. Fireworks festivals (花火大会 hanabi taikai) are a beloved summer tradition held along rivers and coasts throughout Japan.

/kimono/

Traditional Japanese garment consisting of a T-shaped robe with straight seams, tied with a sash called an obi. Worn on special occasions and ceremonies.

/nihongo/

The language spoken in Japan, featuring three writing systems: hiragana, katakana, and kanji. It is spoken by approximately 125 million people worldwide.

/gakkou/

An educational institution. The Japanese school year begins in April and includes rigorous entrance examinations at each stage from middle school through university.

/manga/

Japanese comic books and graphic novels. Manga is a major cultural export of Japan and has a broad readership spanning all age groups and genres.

/anime/

Japanese animated works in film and television. Anime is a global cultural phenomenon originating from Japan, covering genres from children's shows to adult dramas.

/sumou/

Japan's national sport, a competitive full-contact wrestling form in which a wrestler attempts to force an opponent out of a circular ring or to the ground.

/shodou/

The art of beautiful handwriting using a brush and ink. Calligraphy is practised in schools and as a traditional art form throughout Japan.

/sadou/

A traditional Japanese ritual for preparing and presenting matcha tea, emphasizing harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility.

/shakai/

The aggregate of people living together in an ordered community. Japanese society places great emphasis on group harmony and collective well-being.

/dentou/

The transmission of customs and beliefs from generation to generation. Japan has a rich tapestry of traditions spanning arts, festivals, food, and daily etiquette.

/hon/

A written or printed work. Japan has one of the highest literacy rates in the world and a strong culture of reading, including dedicated manga cafés.

/ongaku/

Vocal or instrumental sounds combined to produce beauty of form and expression. Japan has vibrant music scenes ranging from J-pop to traditional instruments like the shamisen.

/kyuujitsu/

A day of rest or celebration. Japan has sixteen public holidays (祝日 shukujitsu) per year, among the highest in the world.

/ookii/

An i-adjective describing something of great size. The kanji form 大 (dai/oo) is widely used in compounds such as 大学 (daigaku, university).

/chiisai/

An i-adjective describing something of small size. The kanji 小 (shou/ko) also appears in compounds such as 小学校 (shougakkou, elementary school).

/atsui/

Describes hot weather or a hot environment. Distinct from 熱い (atsui), which describes a hot object or liquid, and 辛い (karai), which means spicy.

/samui/

Describes cold weather or environment. Different from 冷たい (tsumetai), which describes a cold object or liquid.

/kirei/

A na-adjective meaning both beautiful and clean. Context determines the specific meaning. Often used to compliment appearances or describe tidy spaces.

/omoshiroi/

An i-adjective meaning both interesting and amusing or funny. One of the most versatile adjectives used in everyday Japanese conversation.

/tsumaranai/

The opposite of 面白い, describing something that is uninteresting, tedious, or trivial. Also used humbly when offering a gift meaning "it is nothing special."

/muzukashii/

Describes something that requires great effort or skill to understand or do. Commonly used when talking about studies, tasks, or decisions.

/kantan/

A na-adjective describing something that requires little effort or is straightforward. Used to describe tasks, questions, and recipes.

/atarashii/

Describes something recently made, acquired, or begun. The kanji 新 (shin/atara) appears in many words like 新幹線 (shinkansen, bullet train).

/furui/

Describes something of great age or long existence, used for objects and places. For people's age, 年を取った (toshi wo totta) is used instead.

/takai/

An i-adjective with multiple meanings: expensive in price, tall in height, or high in position. Context clarifies the meaning.

/yasui/

Describes something low in price. Also used in the meaning of safe or stable in some compound words, as in 安心 (anshin, peace of mind).

/hayai/

Describes speed. The same pronunciation 早い (hayai) means early in time. Context and kanji distinguish the two meanings.

/osoi/

Describes something moving slowly or happening later than expected. The same word means late in time, as in 遅刻 (chikoku, being late).

/yasashii/

Describes a person who is caring, gentle, and considerate of others. One of the most valued personality traits in Japanese culture.

/isogashii/

Describes someone who has a lot of tasks and activities. In Japan, saying "I am busy" is a common and socially acceptable reason for declining requests.

/shizuka/

A na-adjective describing a lack of noise or disturbance. Quietness and consideration for others in public spaces is an important social norm in Japan.

/urusai/

Describes a noise level that is irritating or disruptive. Also used informally to tell someone to be quiet, similar to "shut up" in casual speech.

/taisetsu/

A na-adjective conveying that something is important, precious, or must be cherished. Commonly used in expressions of personal values and relationships.

/nani / nan/

The question word used to ask about things. Pronounced なに (nani) before certain particles and なん (nan) before others, particularly before desu or counting words.

/dare/

The question word used to ask about a person's identity. The polite form is どなた (donata). Used in sentences like 誰ですか (dare desu ka, who is it?).

/doko/

The question word used to ask about a place or location. Paired with the particle に or で to indicate destination or location.

/itsu/

The question word used to ask about time. It can refer to a specific point in time or a duration, and does not require a particle in most cases.

/naze/

The question word used to ask for a reason or cause. The more casual form is なんで (nande), while どうして (doushite) is also common and slightly softer.

/dou/

The question word asking about manner or method. どうやって (dou yatte) asks how to do something, while どうですか (dou desu ka) asks "how is it / what do you think?"

/ikutsu/

Used to ask about quantity of things (without a counter) or a person's age informally. For specific counters, どれくらい (dore kurai) or いくら (ikura) for price are used.

/ikura/

Used to ask the price of something. An essential phrase for shopping, and one of the first expressions learners use in practical situations.

/dore/

Used to ask which item to choose from three or more options. For two options, どちら (dochira) is used. どの (dono) is used before a noun.

/dono kurai/

A flexible question phrase asking about extent, distance, or duration. It can replace specific question words when the scale or degree is unknown.

/ie / uchi/

A building used as a home. Read as いえ (ie) for the physical building and うち (uchi) when meaning "my place" or in-group. Used in the phrase お帰り (okaerinasai, welcome home).

/heya/

A space within a building enclosed by walls. Japanese rooms are often measured in tatami mats (畳 tatami), a traditional unit of floor space.

/ofuro/

The Japanese bath, central to daily life. Unlike Western practice, the Japanese custom is to wash outside the tub before soaking in it, and family members share the same bathwater.

/denwa/

A device for voice communication, also referring to the act of calling. Japanese phone etiquette is distinctive, including special greetings like もしもし (moshi moshi) when answering.

/intaanetto/

The global computer network. Japan has some of the fastest internet infrastructure in the world and high rates of internet usage.

/suupaa/

A shortened form of スーパーマーケット. Japanese supermarkets typically offer fresh food, prepared meals, and a wide variety of packaged goods at reasonable prices.

/konbini/

A shortening of コンビニエンスストア. Japanese convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Lawson, and FamilyMart are open 24 hours and offer an extraordinary range of food and services.

/okane/

Currency used as a medium of exchange. Japan remains a predominantly cash-based society compared to other developed nations, with yen (円 en) as the currency.

/kaban/

A container used to carry items. Can refer to a bag of any kind, from school bags to shopping bags. ランドセル (randoseru) is the iconic Japanese elementary school backpack.

/fuku/

Garments worn to cover the body. Japan has a vibrant fashion culture, from traditional kimono to contemporary street fashion districts like Harajuku.

/kasa/

A device for protection from rain. Japan is known for its strong umbrella culture, with umbrella stands (傘立て kasa-tate) found at the entrance of every building.

/kagi/

A device for opening a lock, also referring to the lock itself. Japanese apartment life relies heavily on key management, and smart locks are increasingly popular.

/tokei/

A device for measuring and displaying time. Japan is famous for its precision in punctuality, and clocks and watches are culturally significant objects.

/yoyaku/

An arrangement in advance to use a service or meet someone. Reservations are extremely common in Japan for restaurants, hotels, and medical appointments.

/gomi/

Waste material. Japan has a complex garbage separation system requiring residents to sort waste into categories such as burnable, non-burnable, and recyclable.

/shumi/

A leisure activity done for pleasure. One of the most common conversation starters in Japanese is 趣味は何ですか (shumi wa nan desu ka, what are your hobbies?).

/supootsu/

Physical activity engaged in for competition or recreation. Popular sports in Japan include baseball (野球 yakyuu), soccer (サッカー sakka), and sumo.

/ryouri/

The practice of preparing food, or the food itself. Japanese cuisine (和食 washoku) was designated as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2013.

/kaimono/

The activity of buying goods. Japan is renowned for its shopping culture, with everything from luxury department stores (百貨店 hyakkaten) to vibrant open-air markets.

/ryokou/

A journey from one place to another. Domestic travel within Japan is very popular, with bullet trains making it easy to explore different regions.

/eiga/

A sequence of moving images. Japan has a rich cinematic tradition, with acclaimed directors like Akira Kurosawa and Hayao Miyazaki achieving worldwide recognition.

/ryoukin/

A payment required for a service or product. Used for transport fares, service charges, and utility bills in everyday Japanese.

/kouen/

A public green space for recreation. Japanese parks are meticulously maintained and serve as gathering spots for cherry blossom viewing, exercise, and daily walks.

/yuubinkyoku/

A government facility for sending mail and parcels. Japan Post (日本郵便 Nippon Yuubin) is one of the world's largest financial institutions and also handles banking.

/ginkou/

A financial institution. Japanese banks operate ATMs (ATM) widely and many convenience stores also have ATMs available around the clock.

/ureshii/

Describes a feeling of joy or gladness in response to something specific. Different from 幸せ (shiawase), which describes a broader state of contentment or happiness.

/kanashii/

Describes a feeling of sorrow or unhappiness. Expressing sadness openly is less common in Japanese culture, where maintaining composure is valued.

/shiawase/

A state of deep contentment and well-being. Represents a broader, more sustained happiness than 嬉しい and is often used in the context of life satisfaction.

/okoru/

To feel or express strong annoyance or displeasure. In Japanese culture, expressing anger directly is often considered socially inappropriate and people may use indirect language instead.

/sabishii/

Describes a feeling of sadness from being alone or missing someone. Japan's increasing social isolation is a modern concern, leading to concepts like hikikomori (social withdrawal).

/shinpai/

A feeling of concern or unease about a situation or person. 心配しないでください (please don't worry) is a common reassuring expression.

/kowai/

Describes something that causes fear. Also used to describe a person who is strict or intimidating. 怖い (kowai) means frightening, while 恐れる (osoreru) means to fear something.

/wakuwaku/

An onomatopoeia describing a feeling of excitement or anticipation. Japanese has many expressive onomatopoeia words (擬音語 giongo) like this.

/odoroku/

To feel sudden shock or disbelief at something unexpected. The interjection びっくり (bikkuri) is a common casual expression of surprise.

/hazukashii/

Describes the feeling of embarrassment or shyness. Saving face (顔を立てる kao wo tateru) and avoiding public embarrassment is a significant social value in Japan.

/taikutsu/

The state of feeling weary from lack of interest or activity. Used as a noun or na-adjective: 退屈する (to feel bored), 退屈な時間 (boring time).

/natsukashii/

Describes a warm, longing feeling for something from the past. Japanese culture has a rich sense of nostalgia, captured in the concept of mono no aware (the pathos of things).

/hotto suru/

An onomatopoeic expression describing the physical sensation of relief, as if exhaling deeply. Used after a stressful situation resolves safely.

/kandou suru/

To experience a powerful emotional reaction to something beautiful, meaningful, or unexpectedly generous. 感動 (kandou) literally means "feeling that moves".

/ai/

A deep feeling of affection and care. 愛 (ai) tends to express a deeper, more unconditional love, while 好き (suki) is used for liking someone romantically in everyday speech.

/mori/

A large area covered chiefly with trees. Japan's forests cover roughly two-thirds of the land area and have cultural significance in Shinto as sacred spaces.

/mizuumi/

A large inland body of standing water. Japan has many scenic lakes; Lake Kawaguchi near Mount Fuji is famous for its reflection of the iconic peak.

/jishin/

A sudden shaking of the ground caused by seismic activity. Japan experiences thousands of earthquakes each year due to its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire.

/hoshi/

A luminous sphere of gas seen in the night sky. Stars feature prominently in Japanese legend, most notably the Tanabata (七夕) star festival celebrated in July.

/kiri/

A thick cloud of tiny water droplets suspended in the atmosphere near the ground. Fog creates an atmospheric aesthetic celebrated in Japanese poetry and art.

/doubutsu/

A living organism that feeds on organic matter. Japan has a unique native fauna including the Japanese macaque (snow monkey), tanuki raccoon dog, and Japanese crane.

/neko/

A small domesticated carnivorous mammal. Cats are extremely popular in Japan, featuring in cat cafés (猫カフェ neko kafé) and as the lucky maneki-neko (beckoning cat) figurine.

/inu/

A domesticated carnivorous mammal. Dogs are very popular pets in Japan and feature in folktales, such as the famous loyal dog Hachiko who waited for his owner at Shibuya station.

/tori/

A warm-blooded vertebrate with wings, feathers, and a beak. Japan's crane (鶴 tsuru) is a symbol of longevity and good fortune, prominently featured in origami.

/shima/

A piece of land surrounded by water. Japan itself is an archipelago of over 6,800 islands, with the four main islands being Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku.

/senaka/

The rear surface of the human trunk. Back pain (腰痛 youtsuu) is one of the most common health complaints among Japanese adults due to desk work and long commutes.

/onaka/

The abdomen or belly. Common phrases include お腹が空いた (onaka ga suita, I am hungry) and お腹がいっぱい (onaka ga ippai, I am full).

/netsu/

An abnormally high body temperature, often indicating illness. Also means heat or warmth in general, as in 熱いお湯 (hot water). 熱がある (netsu ga aru) means "to have a fever."

/arerugii/

An immune reaction to a normally harmless substance. Japan has high rates of cedar pollen allergy (花粉症 kafunshou) affecting millions each spring.

/eiyou/

The process of providing the body with the food necessary for health and growth. Japanese cuisine is widely regarded as among the most nutritionally balanced in the world.

/kyaria/

A long-term professional journey in a particular field. Japan is seeing a shift from traditional lifetime employment (終身雇用 shuushin koyou) toward more diverse career paths.

/terewaaku/

Work performed from a location other than a central office, typically from home. Accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, telework has become increasingly normalized in Japan.

/kouhai/

A person of lower seniority or who joined later. The senpai-kouhai (先輩・後輩) relationship is central to Japanese schools and workplaces, defining mentorship and deference.

/senpai/

A person of higher seniority who joined before you. Senpai are expected to guide and mentor their kouhai, and the relationship involves mutual obligations and respect.

/kadai/

A piece of work to be done, or a problem to be solved. Used in both educational contexts (homework assignment) and professional contexts (business challenge).

/koukishin/

A strong desire to know or learn something. 好奇心が旺盛 (koukishin ga ousei) means having a strong curiosity and is considered a positive trait.

/kansha/

A feeling of thankfulness and appreciation. Expressing gratitude is deeply important in Japanese culture, reflected in the many levels of thank-you expressions.

/koukai/

A feeling of sorrow or disappointment over something done or not done. 後悔しないように (so that you don't regret it) is a motivational phrase in Japanese culture.

/gaman/

The capacity to tolerate difficulty or hardship without complaint. 我慢 is a deeply valued virtue in Japanese culture, encapsulating stoic endurance in the face of adversity.

/hokori/

A feeling of satisfaction from one's achievements or the achievements of those with whom one is closely associated. Distinct from 自惚れ (unubore, arrogance), which is pride in excess.