Japanese日本語

konnichiwa

Hello / Good afternoon

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

ohayou gozaimasu

Good morning

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

konbanwa

Good evening

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

sayounara

Goodbye

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

See you later

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

arigatou gozaimasu

Thank you

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

sumimasen

Excuse me / I'm sorry

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

I am sorry

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

onegai shimasu

Please (request)

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

hai

Yes

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

iie

No

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

hajimemashite

Nice to meet you

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

I don't understand

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

ogenki desu ka

How are you?

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

itadakimasu

Let's eat / I humbly receive

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

Thank you for the meal

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

irasshaimase

Welcome (to a shop)

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

omedetou gozaimasu

Congratulations

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

ichi

One

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

ni

Two

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

san

Three

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

shi / yon

Four

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

Five

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

juu

Ten

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

hyaku

Hundred

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

sen

Thousand

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

ima

Now / the present moment

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

kyou

Today

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

Yesterday

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

ashita

Tomorrow

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

Morning

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

yuugata

Evening

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

yoru

Night

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

shuu

Week

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

Month / Moon

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

nen / toshi

Year

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

Mother

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

Father

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

Parents

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

oniisan

Older brother

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

Older sister

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

Younger brother

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

Younger sister

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

kodomo

Child

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

akachan

Baby

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

tomodachi

Friend

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

hito

Person

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

sensei

Teacher / Doctor / Master

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

gakusei

Student

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

douryou

Colleague / Coworker

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

otto

Husband

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

Wife

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

Grandparents

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

What is your name?

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

Rice / Meal

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

Sushi

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

raamen

Ramen

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

tenpura

Tempura

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

Tea

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

mizu

Water

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

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

pan

Bread

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

sakana

Fish

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

niku

Meat

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

yasai

Vegetables

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

kudamono

Fruit

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

tamago

Egg

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

gyuunyuu

Milk

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

nihonshu

Japanese rice wine (sake)

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

hashi

Chopsticks

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

resutoran

Restaurant

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

oishii

Delicious / Tasty

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

menyuu

Menu

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

Spicy / Hot (taste)

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

Train station

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

Train (electric)

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

basu

Bus

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

takushii

Taxi

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

kuukou

Airport

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

hoteru

Hotel

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

ryokan

Traditional Japanese inn

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

chizu

Map

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

michi

Road / Way / Path

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

Town / Neighborhood

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

toshi

City

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

Japan

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

Shinto shrine

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

otera

Buddhist temple

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

onsen

Hot spring / 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

Mountain

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

Sea / Ocean

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

Ticket

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

sakura

Cherry blossom

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

Flower

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

ki

Tree / Wood

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

kawa

River

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

Sky

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

taiyou

Sun

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.

tsuki

Moon

Earth's natural satellite. Moon viewing (月見 tsukimi) is a traditional Japanese autumn festival held to appreciate the full moon.

kumo

Cloud

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

ame

Rain

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

Wind

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

Snow

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

haru

Spring

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

natsu

Summer

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

aki

Autumn / Fall

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

fuyu

Winter

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

niwa

Garden

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

Head

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

Face

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

Eye

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

Ear

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

Mouth

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

Hand

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

Foot / Leg

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

Arm

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

Heart / Mind / Spirit

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.

kenkou

Health

The state of being free from illness or injury. A common toast is 健康に (kenkou ni, to health) when drinking.

byouin

Hospital

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

Medicine / Drug

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

itami

Pain / Ache

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

tsukare

Fatigue / Tiredness

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

Sleep

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

Exercise / Physical activity

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

shigoto

Work / Job

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

Company / Firm

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

kaigi

Meeting

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

Superior / Boss

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

kyuuryou

Salary / Wages

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

keiyaku

Contract / Agreement

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

meishi

Business card

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

Deadline

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

meeru

Email / Message

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

purojekuto

Project

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

okyakusama

Customer / Guest

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

Report / Written report

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

Overtime work

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

Presentation

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

Interview (job)

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.

yosan

Budget

An estimate of income and expenditure for a set period. Budget planning is a key part of Japanese fiscal management at both corporate and government levels.

matsuri

Festival

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

hanabi

Fireworks

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

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

Japanese language

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

gakkou

School

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

manga

Manga / Comic book

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

Anime / Animation

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

Sumo wrestling

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

Calligraphy / The way of writing

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

sadou

Tea ceremony

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

shakai

Society

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

dentou

Tradition

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

Book

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

Music

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

Holiday / Day off

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

ookii

Big / Large

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

Small / Little

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

Hot (weather)

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

Cold (weather)

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

kirei

Beautiful / Pretty / Clean

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

omoshiroi

Interesting / Funny

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

tsumaranai

Boring / Dull

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

Difficult / Hard

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

kantan

Easy / Simple

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

atarashii

New

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

furui

Old / Ancient

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

Expensive / Tall / High

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

yasui

Cheap / Inexpensive

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

Fast / Quick

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

osoi

Slow / Late

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

yasashii

Kind / Gentle

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

isogashii

Busy

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

Quiet / Calm / Peaceful

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

Noisy / Loud / Annoying

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

Important / Precious / Dear

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

nani / nan

What

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

Who

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

Where

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

itsu

When

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

Why

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

How

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

How many / How old

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

How much (price)

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

dore

Which one

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

How far / How long / How much

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

House / Home

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

Room

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

Bath / Bathtub

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

Telephone / Phone call

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

Internet

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

suupaa

Supermarket

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

Convenience store

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

Money

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

Bag / Briefcase

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

Clothes / Clothing

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

kasa

Umbrella

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

Key / Lock

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

Clock / Watch

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

yoyaku

Reservation / Appointment

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

gomi

Rubbish / Garbage / Trash

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

shumi

Hobby / Interest

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

Sport

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

Cooking / Cuisine / Dish

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

Shopping

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

Travel / Trip

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

Movie / Film

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

ryoukin

Fee / Charge / Fare

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

kouen

Park

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

Post office

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

Bank

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

ureshii

Happy / Glad

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

Sad

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

shiawase

Happiness / Bliss

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 be angry / To get angry

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

Lonely / Lonesome

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

Worry / Concern / Anxiety

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

Scary / Frightening

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

Excited / Thrilled

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

odoroku

To be surprised / To be astonished

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

hazukashii

Embarrassed / Ashamed / Shy

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

Boredom / Tedium

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

Nostalgic / Fondly remembered

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

To feel relieved

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

kandou suru

To be deeply moved / To be touched

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

ai

Love

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

Forest / Woods

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

Lake

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

Earthquake

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

Star

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

Fog / Mist

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

Animal

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

Cat

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

Dog

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

Bird

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

Island

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

Back (body)

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

Stomach / Belly

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

Fever / Heat

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

Allergy

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

Nutrition / Nourishment

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

Career

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

Remote work / Telework

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

Junior colleague / Underclassman

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

Senior colleague / Upperclassman

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

Task / Assignment / Challenge

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

Curiosity

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

Gratitude / Appreciation

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

koukai

Regret / Remorse

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

Patience / Endurance / Perseverance

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

Pride / Honour

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.