Anime watchers from all over the world know that anime comes in one of 2 forms, Dubbed and Subbed. If you are anything like me I'm sure you’ve found yourself casually using Japanese words heard in anime that you just can’t get out of your head. Words like Oni-Chan, Senpai, Nani!? And so much more have wormed there way into our vocabulary, but do you know what they mean?
Here are some of the top words seen in your favorite anime, and there English definition:
Hai:
Translates directly to the word “Yes”. Easy right? You’ll see this in mostly all forms of anime as an agreement.
2. Moshi Moshi:
This means “Hello” and is seen as a respectful way of saying “speaking” in Japanese when answering a phone call. This has to be one of my favorite words that I have adopted into my every day life whenever answering the phone.
3. Baka:
Baka translates to stupid or idiot. You’ll probably see this word most used very aggressively by hot tempered or angered characters.
4. Kawaii:
This translates to "cute", just like the person reading this. Very straightforward right?
5. Senpai:
Senpai is used towards someone who is older than you, or has more experience than you in something particular. This person can be an upper classman, or someone you look up to as a person in general.
6.Nani:
This word literally translates to “What?”. In anime you will probably find this word used to show more unexpected reactions of shock such as “ WHAT!?!!!!?”
7.Sugoi or Suge:
This can be used to say something is cool or awesome.
8.San:
This term is used to show respect for the individual you are speaking to. San is versatille and can be used after both male and female names during conversation.
8.Kun(Pronounced KOO-N):
This term is also used to show a small amount of respect, however this is usually placed behind a boys name. For example “Hanako Kun” or "Naruto Kun"
9.Gomenasai:
This is used as a form of apology in Japanese. Think of it as “I’m sorry”. This term is absolutely used a ton in anime and it is pretty hard to miss.
10.Daijobu:
This word translated to Ok or Alright. This can either be used as affirmation, or even asked as a question.
11.Oni-chan:
Meaning older brother in Japanese.
Oni chan is used very heavily throughout anime popularly be younger sisters.