Japanese · Daily Life
ゴミ
gomi
Rubbish / Garbage / Trash
Beginnernoun
Definition
Waste material. Japan has a complex garbage separation system requiring residents to sort waste into categories such as burnable, non-burnable, and recyclable.
Example
ゴミを正しく分別することが大切です。
It is important to properly sort garbage.
Etymology
'ゴミ' (gomi) is derived from the native Japanese word for refuse or waste. It reflects cultural attitudes towards cleanliness and waste management.
How & Where It’s Used
'ゴミ' (gomi) is predominantly used in informal spoken language, though it appears in written forms as well. It is employed in everyday discussions about waste.