If you are an avid anime viewer, you will probably have the infamous Japanese swear word “baka”, which simply translates to stupid or foolish. It’s one of the most commonly used insults in Japanese, and from the way characters shout it, you may have already guessed that it’s meant as an insult. But did you know there is an interesting history behind this word and how it came to be?
In this article, we are going to look at the word “baka”, what it means, and why you probably shouldn’t say it!
What Does “Baka” Mean in Japanese?
The Japanese word “baka” can be written in hiragana, katakana, and kanji: ばか, バカ, and 馬鹿. Depending on the nuance, context, and tone of the speaker, it can range from a playful “you dummy” to an offensive insult heaped upon a man and his household.
The kanji for baka (馬鹿) consists of two characters: uma (馬), meaning “horse,” and shika (鹿), meaning “deer.” These two kanji are used not for their meanings, but for their phonetic value — or ateji — representing the sounds ba and ka. Using the same phonetics, the word baka can also be written with several other kanji combinations, such as:
母娘 (Mother-Daughter)
馬娘 (Horse-Daughter)
破家 (Broken-House)
莫迦 (Trillions-Beautiful voice)
Origin of Baka
The exact origin or etymology of this term is unknown, though there are a few theories and versions.
1. Theory 1
The most widely accepted theory (and certainly the most dramatic) comes from the Chinese historical text, The Records of the Grand Historian. During the Qin Dynasty, a treacherous eunuch named Zhao Gao (Choko) wanted to test which courtiers were loyal to him before he staged a rebellion. He brought a deer to the Emperor and declared, “I have brought you a rare horse.” When the confused Emperor asked if it was a deer, Zhao Gao turned to the court and asked them to settle the matter.
Terrified of Zhao Gao’s power, the loyalists agreed it was a horse. Those who insisted it was a deer were later executed. From this, the idiom 指鹿為馬 (Shi-roku-i-ba) arose, describing the act of using power to force others to accept a blatant lie. It is believed “Baka” (Horse-Deer) was pulled directly from this story to describe someone so foolish they can’t see the truth, or someone forced to act like a fool.
2. Theory 2
Many scholars believe “Baka” is a transliteration of the Sanskrit word moha (慕何), meaning ignorance, delusion, or “loss of consciousness.” Edo-period scholars suggested that Buddhist monks began using the term esoterically, and it eventually seeped into common slang. Another Sanskrit candidate is mahallaka (摩訶羅), which refers to someone who is senile or feeble-minded. Interestingly, in Bengali (which shares Sanskrit roots), the word baka still means “stupid person” today.
3. Theory 3
A more local theory suggests “Baka” is actually a corruption of the Japanese word wakamono (若者), meaning “young people.” The idea is that the “w” sound was eventually replaced with “b” when older generations referred to youth as “foolish” or “stupid youngsters” (bakamono).
4. Theory 4
Another Buddhist theory points to the term 破家 (Baka), found in Zen scriptures. This literally means “a family bankrupted.” In this context, a bakamono was originally someone so profoundly stupid that they managed to drive their entire family into financial ruin.
5. Theory 5
A final theory stems from the poetry of Bai Juyi. He wrote about a wealthy Chinese family named Uma (馬/horse) who squandered their fortune on ridiculous things until they went bankrupt. It is suggested that 馬家者 (ba-ka-mono) — meaning “a person of the Horse family” — became a shorthand for a wealthy fool who loses everything.
How and When to Use (or Not Use) “Baka”
1. Do: Call Your Friends “Baka” Playfully (Sometimes)
Okay. Here is an example of a situation where you can use “baka”: with your friends.
For example, maybe your friend is doing something stupid – like trying to catch a fish in a pond. Ope, he/she slipped, now they are all wet.
And then you help fish them out – because that’s what friends are for. Very playful, very appropriate. But you don’t want to overdo it. Calling your friends “baka” too much might not be very nice, so you want to use discretion in how often you use this word.
2. Do: Use “Baka” Among Your Friends
“Baka” can also be used as a positive descriptor, as the English adjectives “extremely” or “ridiculously”. For example, ばかうまい (baka umai), which can be translated as “ridiculously good” or “extremely delicious” depending on the context.
To use, just put “baka” ばか in front of a Japanese adjective to make it more extreme. This is a very colloquial use of the word and should be limited to friends or family.
3. Don’t: Use “Baka” With Strangers
It probably goes without saying, but this one is an absolute “Don’t”. Even if you think you are just joking around with someone, you just meant – it’s probably not a wise idea. They might even react with laughter on the surface – but more likely than not, that is merely tatemae.
It is extremely offensive to use this word with someone you do not know. So just don’t do it.
4. Don’t: Use “Baka” With Anyone “Above” You
This goes hand in hand with the phrase “Strangers” above, but you should avoid using this word when talking to people higher up. This includes bosses, supervisors, teachers, your father-in-law, etc.
Even if you want to use it as a descriptor, it’s probably better to opt instead for とても or めっちゃ (めっちゃ is the more casual) if you want to emphasize something.
Unless this is someone above you that you are really close to, just avoid it.
Regional Variations of Baka
While baka is a popular word, Japan’s diverse dialects mean the word for “fool” changes significantly as you travel across the islands.
Region
Local Term
Nuance & Context
Kanto (Tokyo)
Baka (馬鹿)
The most common term in the West. Often used affectionately or as “slapstick” humor.
Kansai (Osaka/Kyoto)
Aho (アホ)
The most common term in the west. Often used affectionately or as “slapstick” humor.
Aichi (Nagoya)
Tawake (たわけ)
Sounds traditional and authoritative; often used by older generations to scold someone.
Hokkaido
Hankakusa (はんかくさい)
Means “ridiculous” or “half-baked.” Used when someone is acting foolishly.
Okayama
Bokke (ぼっけー)
An intensifier that can mean “extremely” or describe someone as a “big fool.”
Kagoshima
Utogurashi (うとぐらし)
A rustic, dialect-heavy term for someone who is “slow” or “clueless.”
Okinawa
Derived from the local Ryukyuan languages, a casual way to call someone a fool.
The standard. It can be a light tease or a sharp insult, depending on tone.
What About “Aho”?
The insult aho (アホ) is the closest sibling to baka. While both translate to “idiot” or “fool,” their impact depends entirely on where you are in Japan. The usage follows a classic East-versus-West divide.
In the Kansai region (Osaka and Kyoto), aho is the go-to expression. It’s often used as a playful or affectionate “dummy” among friends, while baka can sound unexpectedly harsh or clinical to Western Japanese ears (learn more about Kansai dialect phrases here).
In contrast, if you are in the Kanto region (Tokyo and the surrounding areas), baka is the standard term. Here, it carries a wide spectrum of meaning, from a lighthearted tease to a serious rebuke. Because aho isn’t native to Tokyo’s daily dialect, using it in the capital can actually feel more pointed or mean-spirited.
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The severity of baka depends entirely on the context and your relationship with the person. Among close friends, it can be a playful tease (like “dummy”). However, using it with strangers, superiors, or in a formal setting is highly disrespectful and can be seen as a serious insult.
What is the difference between "Baka" and "Aho"?
The main difference is regional. In Tokyo (Kanto), baka is the standard term, while aho can sound harsher. In Osaka/Kyoto (Kansai), the roles are reversed: aho is used affectionately in daily conversation, while baka is considered a much more stinging, cold insult.
What does the kanji for "Baka" (馬鹿) mean?
The kanji literally translate to “Horse” (馬) and “Deer” (鹿). This stems from an ancient Chinese legend where a corrupt official forced people to call a deer a horse to test their loyalty; those who spoke the truth were considered “fools” for defying his power.
If you’ve ever dined at a Japanese restaurant, you’ve likely seen people press their palms together and say “Itadakimasu” before eating and “Gochisousama deshita” afterward. In English, these are usually translated as “Let’s eat” and “Thank you for the meal.” But while they function like “saying grace,” the meaning goes much deeper than simple manners. These phrases represent a unique Japanese philosophy of gratitude, not just to the cook, but to the plants, animals, and nature that provided the ingredients.
In this post, we’re going to peel back the layers and nuance behind itadakimasu and gouchisousama deshita. We’ll explore the etiquette of how to say them properly, and the fascinating history behind the kanji!
What Does Itadakimasu (いただきます) Mean?
Itadakimasu (いただきます) means “I humbly receive.” It’s said before eating to express gratitude for the food, the ingredients, and the people who prepared or provided it. Its more popular translation, “let’s eat,” is inaccurate and misses the phrase’s deeper meaning.
The word itadakimasu itself is the humble form (kenjougo) of the verb morau (もらう), which means “to receive.” This is why its literal translation is “I humbly receive.” The phrase isn’t just for food, either. You can use it whenever you receive a gift, an award, or even a piece of advice from someone to whom you want to show deep respect.
The kanji of itadakimasu 頂 has several meanings, among which are “the top of the head” and “to receive”. The expression refers to the traditional way of showing gratitude by holding the gift above one’s head.
So why do Japanese people say itadakimasu before they eat?
In Japanese culture, it is believed that all living things, whether it’s a cow, a fish, or even a stalk of rice, have a spirit. When you eat, you aren’t just “consuming calories”. You are receiving the gift of life from those ingredients. By saying itadakimasu, you are thanking both the chef and acknowledging that the food on your plate is a sacrifice.
This concept differs significantly from the Western tradition of “saying grace.” In many Western cultures, there is a clear spiritual hierarchy: gratitude is directed upward to God, who provides for people, who then utilize animals and nature. When saying grace, the thanks are typically given to God. In contrast, Japanese culture is deeply influenced by Shinto and Buddhist beliefs, which view the world through a lens of interconnectedness and equality. Instead of a vertical hierarchy, there is a horizontal respect for all living things. By saying Itadakimasu, you are thanking the food, the people, and the creator.
From generation to generation, Japanese people are taught to clap their hands and say “Itadakimasu!” before savouring the delicious-looking food in front of them as part of their dining etiquette. Children learn the expression at a very young age at school, and no one would even think of starting a meal until everyone has received their share.
How to Perform Itadakimasu
To perform Itadakimasu properly, follow these simple steps to show you respect the meal:
Press your palms together in front of your chest (this is called gassho). It should be a gentle movement, similar to a prayer position rather than a loud clap.
Say “Itadakimasu” clearly. If you are in a group, it’s polite to wait for the host or the eldest person to say it first.
Give a slight, respectful nod of the head while your hands are still together.
After you have finished the phrase and the bow, pick up your chopsticks or utensils to start eating.
After filling their stomachs, Japanese people thank those who prepared, cooked, and served the food by saying “Gochisousama desu!” (ご馳走様です). Gochisousama desu (ごちそうさまです) means “thank you for the meal.”
It’s said after eating to express gratitude for the food and for the person or people who provided it, such as a host, a cook, or restaurant staff. Unlike a casual “that was good,” it specifically acknowledges the effort and generosity behind the meal.
To understand the weight of this expression, we have to look back to its fascinating linguistic origins. The word is composed of a unique set of kanji. In the days before cars and modern convenience, a host who wanted to provide a quality meal for their guests had to travel long distances to hunt, fish, or forage. They would often head out on horseback to search high and low for the freshest ingredients. This physical effort is immortalized in the kanji for Gochisou (馳走). The first character, chi (馳), contains the radical for “horse” (馬), while the second character, sou (走), literally means “run.” Together, they paint a picture of a host “running their horse” or rushing about to gather a feast.
When a guest says “Gochisousama,” they are literally saying, “You were someone who ran around for me.” It is a recognition of the hard work and preparation that happened long before the food ever hit the table. While most people in modern Japan write the phrase in hiragana (ごちそうさま) rather than kanji, the sentiment remains the same. To a Japanese speaker today, gochisou means “a feast” or “a great meal.”
Gochisousama desu vs deshita
You might be confused when you hear people alternating between gochisousama desu and gochisousama deshita, with the latter being the past-tense form of the phrase. Gochisousama desu is used to express gratitude for a meal that is currently being enjoyed or has just been finished. On the other hand, gochisousama deshita is used to say “thank you for the delicious meal” in a more polite, formal way, typically directed at the person who prepared or paid for the meal. This form is commonly used when dining at a restaurant or when your boss treats you to a meal.
When to Use Itakadimasu
When it comes to the dinner table, Itadakimasu acts as a definitive marker that the meal has officially begun. However, there are a few specific “moments” during the dining experience where the timing matters.
1. When Food is Served
The most common time to say itadakimasu is when all the food has been served. For example, if you are a guest at a friend’s house and they serve you a meal, you would say it, even if they technically didn’t cook the food themselves (for instance, if they ordered it through a delivery app).
Over time, itadakimasu has also come to function as a kind of starting signal. When dining in a group, it marks the moment when everyone can begin eating together.
2. When You Eat Alone
Even when eating alone, many Japanese people still clasp their hands and quietly say itadakimasu. In this context, the phrase isn’t about social performance. Rather, because Japanese culture places strong emphasis on gratitude toward nature and ingredients, it becomes a personal moment of mindfulness.
3. When You Are Offered a Snack or Drink
Coffee or snacks may not be a full meal, but itadakimasu can also mean “I humbly receive.” When a coworker hands you a small candy or a friend pours you a cup of tea, saying itadakimasu as you accept it is a standard way to show appreciation. It signals that you’re not merely taking the item, but expressing gratitude for the act of being given nourishment.
4. Don’t Use When Receiving Non-physical things
While itadakimasu is a versatile phrase, it is specifically used for receiving tangible gifts or physical things (like food, a present, or a document). You don’t use it when you receive non-physical things, such as compliments, series, permissions, and favors.
For example, if someone gives you advice, you don’t say “itadakimashita” after they say it. If someone praises your Japanese skills, don’t say itadakimasu. Instead, use arigatou gozaimasu, or a more humble reply:
いいえ、いいえ、まだです。 Iie, iie, mada desu.
When to Use Gochisousama Deshita
1. When Leaving a Restaurant
You’ll notice Japanese people doing this often when dining out. Gochisōsama deshita is a warm and polite way to thank restaurant staff for the meal. For example, in a small ramen shop, you may hear customers calling out gochisōsama deshita toward the kitchen as they leave.
In other cases, people might say it directly to the cashier while paying, or simply say it aloud as they exit. The exact timing and direction can vary, but the meaning is the same: expressing gratitude to the restaurant as a whole.
2. Right After You Finish Eating
The most common moment to say gochisousama deshita is immediately after finishing your meal. Once you place your chopsticks back on the chopstick rest, you join your hands, give a small nod, and say the phrase.
The chopstick rest is called hashioki (箸置き): hashi (箸) means chopsticks, and oki comes from oku (置く), meaning “to place.” This gesture signals to your host or the restaurant staff that you have finished eating and are satisfied.
3. When Someone Treats You to a Meal
Similar to itadakimasu, gochisousama deshita isn’t only about thanking the cook or the food itself. It also acknowledges the person who provided the meal.
If your boss invites you out for a work meal and pays for it, saying gochisousama deshita is the standard and polite way to express thanks in Japanese. There’s no strict rule about timing: you can say it at the table after finishing, or later, once you’re both outside the restaurant.
Itadakimasu and Gochisousama deshita are essential Japanese phrases, but understanding their true nuance is what sets you apart. If you want to move beyond the basics and truly navigate life and work in Japan with confidence, Coto Academy is the perfect place to start. With convenient school locations in Shibuya and Shinjuku, we offer beginner-friendly, flexible Japanese lessons tailored to your needs. Ready to dive deeper into the language and culture?
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What is the difference between "Gochisousama" and "Gochisousama deshita"?
Gochisousama: Casual. Use this with friends, siblings, or at home with close family.
Gochisousama deshita: Formal/Polite. Use this in restaurants, at a friend’s house, or when a colleague treats you. The past tense (deshita) indicates that you have fully finished and appreciated the entire experience.
Can I use "Itadakimasu" for drinks?
Yes! If someone pours you a cup of tea, coffee, or even a beer, saying Itadakimasu as you accept it is very polite. It acknowledges the “gift” of the drink.
Should I still say "itadakimasu" and "gouchisousama deshits" it when eating alone?
Most Japanese people do this as a private moment of mindfulness to show respect for the food, regardless of whether someone is watching.
What is the simplest translation of these phrases?
“I humbly receive” (Itadakimasu) and “That was a feast” (Gochisousama).
In Japanese, the word “どうも” (doumo) is a very versatile and frequently used word that can mean a few different things depending on the context. どうも, pronounced “dou-mo,” is a phrase you’d come across when you’re eating in at an izakaya or a restaurant. You can also use it to thank someone. You can also use it as the English version of “very much” and “very”. In many situations, the word is used to express appreciation.
Is it just a casual “thanks”? Or can it mean “hello,” “sorry,” or even something else entirely? In this post, we’ll unravel the many meanings of doumo, show you exactly when and how to use it, and share real-life examples so you can speak like a native and sound natural in everyday Japanese conversations.
What Does “Domo” Mean in Japanese?
In Japanese, どうも (doumo) is a flexible and commonly used word that can express gratitude, serve as a greeting, emphasize an apology, or convey uncertainty. Its meaning changes depending on context, tone, and the words it’s paired with. While often translated as “thanks” or “very,” it has a much broader range of use in real-life conversation.
Different Meanings of Domo in Japanese
1. Doumo as a “Thank You”
One of the most frequent uses of doumo is to express gratitude. It can be used on its own to casually say “thanks” in Japanese or combined with other expressions to show more formality. For example, どうもありがとう (doumo arigatou) means “thank you very much,” while どうもありがとうございます (doumo arigatou gozaimasu) is an even more polite and respectful version. Saying just どうも by itself is common among friends or acquaintances when you want to thank someone casually, such as when receiving a small favor or gift.
Tip: Adding doumo makes your thank you sound warmer and more polite.
カードをどうもありがとう。 Kaado o doumo arigatou. Thank you for your card.
If you know Japan, you have probably come across the phrase “Arigato” at some point. If you’re a foreigner traveling to Japan, “Arigato” is a phrase you cannot avoid using. On the other hand, doumo is a much shorter way of saying arigato.
Let’s say that you’re leaving the restaurant with your friend. A conversation between you and the shopkeeper could sound like this:
You: ごちそうさまでした。 Gochisousama deshita. It was very delicous.
Shopkeeper: どうもありがとうございました。 Doumo arigatou gozaimashita. Thank you for eating at our place.
You: どうも。 Doumo. Thanks.
2. Doumo as a casual greeting
In casual situations, doumo can also be used as a brief, informal greeting in Japanese, similar to saying “hi” or “hey” in English. You might hear someone say どうも when they run into a coworker or friend. It’s short, friendly, and relaxed, but it’s not appropriate in formal or professional introductions.
For example, at work, when you see a colleague you are close with, you can simply say:
どうも！ Doumo! Hey!
Keep in mind that this is less formal and shorter than full greetings like “konnichiwa” (こんいちは), so you should only use it to people you know. Otherwise, it can sound a bit rough or blunt.
3. Doumo as an apology
Doumo can soften the tone of an apology when paired with expressions like すみません (sumimasen) or 失礼しました (shitsurei shimashita). Phrases like どうもすみません or どうも失礼しました convey a stronger sense of sincerity — roughly translating to “I’m really sorry” or “I truly apologize.” In this context, doumo works as an intensifier, adding politeness and humility to the apology.
Of course, the tone here matters! Remember that doumo (どうも) can also mean “thank you,” and this word can be used all by itself. To avoid miscommunication, pay close attention to how you say it when you want to express that you’re sorry.
For example, if you bump into someone and say doumo with a lowered voice or while bowing your head, it means “sorry.” The intonation is usually falling or flat in this case.
In contrast, when saying doumo to mean “thank you,” the intonation often rises or fluctuates and sounds more cheerful and bright.
どうも申し訳ありません Doumo moushi wake arimasen. I deeply apologize
Another function of doumo is to express vague feelings or emphasize a state of uncertainty. This is because when placed at the beginning of a sentence, doumo can soften what you say, signaling you’re not 100% sure or you want to be polite but indirect. It’s like saying “Well…” or “I’m afraid that…” or “Somehow…” in English, often to avoid being too direct. Take a look at the example below. どうも調子が悪いみたいです。 Doumo choushi ga warui mitai desu. Somehow, I don’t feel well.
With that said, doumo often appears in implicitly negative phrases like どうも変だね (“That seems weird”) or どうも調子が悪い (“Something feels off”). In these cases, it communicates a sense of something being unclear, wrong, or difficult to explain. It’s often used when the speaker can’t quite put their finger on the issue.
5. Doumo to make an emphasis
Doumo can also emphasize a feeling or state, often meaning “very,” “quite,” or “really” when placed before adjectives or verbs. This is because when used at the start of a sentence or phrase, doumo acts like a little intensifier. It gives extra weight to the verb or adjective that follows.
Using doumo adds a polite but clear emphasis without sounding too dramatic or strong. It’s a natural part of Japanese conversation that helps speakers express their feelings more precisely and politely. どうも分かりません。 Doumo wakarimasen. I really don’t understand.
6. Doumo as a polite softener
In Japanese, politeness is very important, and speakers often use certain words to soften requests or statements, making them sound more gentle and less direct. Doumo can be used at the start of a sentence or phrase to add this softening effect, making the speaker sound more humble, polite, or considerate.
It’s like adding “please” or “kindly” in English to make a request sound more courteous.
What’s an interesting fact about “Doumo”?
In Japan, mascot characters are created to represent many companies and regions. In fact, Japan has a “Domo-kun（どーもくん）” mascot. He is an official mascot created by Japan’s public broadcaster (NHK). His concept derives from the greetings on Japanese morning television.
When (and When Not) to Use Doumo
Expression
Meaning
Context
どうも
Thanks / Hi
Very casual
どうもありがとう
Thank you very much
Casual but polite
どうもありがとうございます
Thank you very much (formal)
Formal, respectful
どうもすみません
I’m very sorry
Polite apology
どうも調子が悪い
I don’t feel right
Expressing uncertainty
あ、どうも〜
Hey there!
Casual greeting
Doumo is safe to use in casual and semi-formal situations, especially when you’re talking with people you know well. It’s great for friendly conversations, everyday gratitude, and casual greetings. However, in formal situations, such as business meetings or speaking with someone older or of higher status, you should avoid using doumo alone. Instead, use full expressions like ありがとうございます (thank you) or 失礼しました (excuse me).
どうも (Doumo) Sentence Patterns and Examples
どうも (doumo) can be an independent term that is used alone or can be attached to other phrases. So, the structure or sentence pattern varies largely based on its usage. Let’s look at some example sentences to demonstrate how the structure and meaning change based on usage.
1. As a casual “Thank you.”
To just say a casual “thanks,” どうも (doumo) is used by itself:
どうも。 Doumo. Thanks.
To add emphasis when saying “thank you,” you can add it to ありがとうございます:
どうもありがとうございます。 Doumo arigatou gozaimasu. Thank you very much.
2. Expressing Uncertainty or That Something feels off
To express a sense of uncertainty, you can attach it to other adjectives, like in the examples below:
どうも調子が悪い。 Doumo chuushi ga warui. I don’t feel quite right.
彼の話はどうも怪しい。 Kare no hanashi doumo ayashii. Something about his story seems suspicious.
3. Adding Emphasis (vague but strong)
Doumo is also often used to add emphasis; in this case, you must attach it to other words:
どうもすみません。 Doumo sumimasen. I’m really sorry.
どうも納得できない。 Doumo nattoku dekinai. I really can’t accept it.
4. Casual Greeting
To use どうも (doumo) as a casual greeting, you can use it alone or with other greetings.
どうも、久しぶり。 Doumo, hisashiburi. Hey, long time no see.
Vocabulary List
Check out all the new words in the example sentences above, and try to remember new vocabulary alongside today’s Japanese grammar!
Kanji / Writing
Furigana
Romaji
English
ありがとう
ありがとう
arigatou
thank you
調子
ちょうし
choushi
condition
悪い
わるい
warui
bad
話
はなし
hanashi
story; talk
怪しい
あやしい
ayashii
suspicious
納得する
なっとくする
nattoku suru
to be convinced
久しぶり
ひさしぶり
hisashiburi
long time no see
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FAQ
What does domo mean in Japanese?
“Domo” (どうも) is a versatile word meaning “thanks,” “hello,” “sorry,” or used for emphasis depending on context.
How do you say thank you in Japanese?
The most common way is “arigatou” (ありがとう) or more politely “arigatou gozaimasu” (ありがとうございます).
How do you use domo?
You use “domo” alone for casual thanks or greetings, or combined with phrases like “domo arigatou” to say thank you politely.
How do you write doumo?
“Domo” is written in hiragana as どうも.
How is どうも different from とても?
とても expresses a very clear emphasis (very), where どうも is more vague, often emotional or conversational.
Is どうも polite?
By itself, どうも is considered very casual. However, when combined with polite expressions, it can highlight politeness. A couple of very common examples: どうもありがとうございます (doumo arigatou gozaimasu) or “thank you very much,” and どうもすみません (doumo sumimasen) or “I’m very sorry.”
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Planning to study for the JLPT? Short for the Japanese Language Proficiency Test, JLPT is the most recognized Japanese language certification used by employers, universities, and immigration authorities to assess non-native speakers’ Japanese proficiency.
People say that passing the JLPT opens many doors, like landing a job in Japan and even help with your visa application for permanent residence. But with so much at stake, the JLPT can also be one of the most stressful tests to take. How long should you study? Can you even take the test where you live? In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the JLPT, from registration to preparation strategies and resources, so you can walk into the exam room ready to pass!
What is the JLPT?
The Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is a standardized exam administered by the Japan Educational Exchanges and Services (JEES) and the Japanese Ministry of Education. It evaluates and certifies the Japanese language skills of non-native speakers across five levels, from N5 (beginner) to N1 (advanced).
The JLPT was first introduced in 1984 in response to the growing demand for a reliable Japanese language certification. In its first year, only 7,000 people took the test. By 2024, around 1.72 million people took the test worldwide!
The exam has evolved significantly over time. Back then, it was a requirement for international students applying to Japanese universities. While the EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students) has largely taken its place in academia, the JLPT remains a trusted credential for employers.
Originally held only once a year with just four levels, it now takes place twice a year (in July and December) in many countries, except in 2020, when it was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Today, all JLPT levels use multiple-choice questions and use machines to score the test to maintain fairness.
Study the JLPT Smarter with Coto Academy!
Self-study is tough, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Coto Academy, our students consistently pass at double the global average by focusing on the actual logic and strategy behind the test. Whether you join us in-person in Tokyo every Saturday or prefer our online sessions, this 3-month course covers everything, from vocabulary and kanji to the reading techniques that save you time on exam day.
Classes are kept small to make sure everyone gets the support they need!
Comprehensive coverage: 3 hours per class covering vocabulary, kanji, grammar, and reading strategies.
Expert guidance: Small class sizes with instructors who know exactly where students usually stumble.
Flexible learning: Join us in-person at our Tokyo campus every Saturday, or join from anywhere in the world via our online sessions.
There are five JLPT levels, each designed to measure different stages of Japanese language proficiency.
The beginner levels, N5 and N4, focus on building a solid foundation in basic Japanese. N3 serves as a bridge between beginner and advanced skills, demonstrating the ability to handle everyday conversations comfortably. N2 is business-level Japanese and is the minimum requirement for many companies hiring foreign workers. Finally, N1 represents full fluency of the language.
Here’s an overview of how many kanji and vocabulary words you’ll need to know for each JLPT level:
JLPT Level
Approximate Kanji to Know
Approximate Vocabulary to Know
N5
100
800
N4
300
1,500
N3
650
3,750
N2
1,000
6,000
N1
2,000+
10,000+
Below is a detailed explanation of each level to help you decide which JLPT exam best suits your current skills and goals:
1. JLPT N5
The JLPT N5 is the most basic level, designed to test fundamental Japanese language skills. It is roughly equivalent to A1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This level evaluates your ability to understand and use simple phrases and everyday expressions written in hiragana, katakana, and basic kanji.
At this point, you can prove that you can greet people, but you can’t express your opinion yet.
While N5 alone may not open many job opportunities, it serves as a valuable goal for beginners!
The JLPT N4 shows that you can handle basic Japanese used in daily life, including reading simple passages and understanding common conversations. It corresponds approximately to A2-B1 on the CEFR.
Passing the JLPT N4 is usually manageable for those who have already cleared N5. However, N4 requires knowing about 200 additional kanji and roughly 700 more vocabulary words compared to the N5 level.
Make sure to watch our YouTube video, where Nami-sensei teaches you how to use one of JLPT N3 grammar, dake (だけ)!
3. JLPT N3
JLPT N3 is the intermediate level of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test, sitting right between the beginner (5 or N4) and advanced (N2 and N1) tiers. It’s designed to test your ability to understand everyday Japanese used in a range of familiar situations.
At this level, you’re expected to have a solid grasp of grammar, a growing vocabulary, and the ability to read slightly more complex texts.
For many learners, N3 is an achievable milestone. It shows that you can handle daily conversations, understand basic news headlines, and navigate typical communication in a Japanese environment without much difficulty.
Professionally, JLPT N3 is often the minimum requirement for part-time jobs in Japan and may also be accepted for technical roles in global companies where some Japanese ability is helpful but not strictly essential, such as in IT or engineering teams.
The JLPT N2 demonstrates advanced intermediate proficiency. At this level, you are expected to understand Japanese used in a wide variety of contexts, such as newspapers, TV shows, lectures, and business conversations.
N2 is often regarded as the benchmark for business-level Japanese. Although N2 is the threshold for fluency, more companies are relaxing their standards for Japanese fluency to the N3 level.
The JLPT N1 is the highest and most challenging level, indicating near-native fluency. It covers about 2,000 kanji and 10,000 vocabulary words. N1 tests your ability to comprehend complex texts such as academic articles, editorials, and detailed reports, as well as to follow nuanced conversations on specialized topics.
Although N1 is the highest JLPT level, learners can further challenge themselves by taking the Business Japanese Proficiency Test (BJT). Unlike the JLPT, which focuses on general language proficiency, the BJT is designed to objectively measure practical communication skills in a Japanese business environment.
The JLPT measures your language skills across four main areas: vocabulary, grammar, reading, and listening. Each section has a time limit, and the structure varies slightly depending on the test level.
For JLPT N5 to N3, the exam is split into three sections:
Vocabulary
Grammar and Reading
Listening
For JLPT N2 and N1, vocabulary, grammar, and reading are part of the same section, making time management even more crucial.
Test duration by level
Level
Test Sections
Time Allotment
Total Duration
N1
Vocabulary, Grammar and Reading
110 minutes
165 min
Listening
55 minutes
N2
Vocabulary, Grammar and Reading
105 min
155 min
Listening
50 minutes
N3
Vocabulary
30 min
140 min
Grammar + Reading
70 min
Listening
40 min
N4
Vocabulary
25 minutes
115 minutes
Grammar + Reading
55 minutes
Listening
35 minutes
N5
Vocabulary
20 minutes
90 minutes
Grammar + Reading
40 minutes
Listening
30 minutes
JLPT section breakdown
1. Vocabulary (語彙)
This section tests your knowledge of Japanese words and kanji readings. You’ll need to recognize vocabulary in different formats, such as:
Kanji reading: Select the correct reading of the underlined kanji.
Orthography: Choose the correct kanji for a word written in hiragana.
Word formation: Complete compound words or expressions.
Paraphrasing: Pick a synonym or phrase with a similar meaning.
Usage and expressions: Choose the sentence where a word is used correctly or complete the missing parts.
2. Grammar (文法)
Though the dedicated grammar test section in JLPT is short, remember that the level-appropriate grammar is also a part of other sections like reading and vocabulary. You may encounter:
Grammar fill-in-the-blank: Choose the appropriate grammar form or phrases.
Sentence order: Rearrange jumbled parts into a grammatically correct sentence.
Phrase completion: Select the best phrase to complete a sentence naturally.
3. Reading (読解)
The reading section is the most difficult for many. You’ll read various texts and answer questions about them. The complexity increases at higher levels. Reading tasks may include:
Passage comprehension: Understand short to long texts.
Information retrieval: Extract key details from ads, notices, or schedules.
Integrated comprehension: Compare two passages (only in N2 and N1).
Thematic comprehension: Grasp the main idea of long-form texts (N2 and N1).
4. Listening (聴解)
The listening section of the JLPT tests how well you can understand spoken Japanese in real-life situations. You’ll hear short conversations, announcements, or monologues, and answer questions based on what you heard. Importantly, you only hear the audio once, and the questions appear after the audio, so active listening and memory are key.
Appropriate Response: Choose the best reply to a short conversation or question.
Task Comprehension: Understand what action is required based on instructions or requests.
Key Point Comprehension: Identify the main idea or important details of the dialogue.
Verbal Expressions: Interpret specific phrases or expressions in context.
Integrated Comprehension: (N2/N1 only) Follow longer conversations and compare opinions or viewpoints.
Passing score for JLPT
To pass the JLPT (Japanese-Language Proficiency Test), you must pass both the overall score requirement and the minimum sectional score.
1. Overall score requirement
Each JLPT level has a different total score and passing threshold:
JLPT Level
Total Score
Passing Score
N1
180
100
N2
180
90
N3
180
95
N4
180
90
N5
180
80
2. Minimum sectional score
Similarly, the minimum required scores for each section of the JLPT vary by level. Note that for JLPT N4 and N5, vocabulary, grammar, and reading are combined into a single section!
JLPT Level
Vocabulary and Grammar
Reading
Listening
Total score
Passing score
Total score
Passing score
Total score
Passing score
N1
19
60
19
60
19
60
N2
19
60
19
60
19
60
N3
19
60
19
60
19
60
JLPT Level
Vocabulary, Grammar and Reading
Listening
Total score
Passing score
Total score
Passing score
N4
120
38
19
60
N5
120
38
19
60
This means even if your total score meets the passing requirement, you won’t pass the test unless you also reach the minimum score in each individual section.
For instance, in N2, you must score at least 19 points in both the combined Language Knowledge (Vocabulary/Grammar) & Reading section, and in the Listening section. You can’t rely on one strong area to make up for a weak one!
When and where can you take the JLPT?
Wondering if you can take the JLPT in your home country? The Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is held twice a year, typically on the first Sunday of July and December, both in Japan and at select overseas locations.
However, some countries only offer the JLPT once a year, either in July or December, so it’s important to check your local schedule.
As of 2024, the JLPT is conducted in over 96 countries and regions. That means if you live in or near a major city, there’s a good chance a test center is available nearby. You can check the official JLPT site for the list of overseas test sites.
How many hours does it take to study for JLPT?
The number of study hours needed to pass the JLPT can vary widely depending on the learner. If you’re living in Japan or regularly exposed to Japanese, especially kanji, you may progress more quickly.
Learners with a background in Chinese or other kanji-based languages also tend to pick things up faster due to their familiarity with the writing system.
Exam level
Hours needed to study
With kanji knowledge
Without kanji knowledge
N5
350 hours
400 – 500 hours
N4
550 hours
800 – 1,000 hours
N3
900 hours
1325 hours
N2
1500 hours
2200 hours
N1
2150 hours
3900 – 4500 hours
Take a look at the table below for a rough estimate of how many hours you might need to spend studying for each JLPT level!
JLPT Level
Estimated Study Duration (1–2 hours/day)
N5
4 to 6 months
N4
7 to 9 months
N3
10 to 12 months
N2
14 to 18 months
N1
20 to 24+ months
If you study for 1–2 hours a day, you can expect to reach JLPT N5 or N4 in about 6 to 9 months. Advancing to N2 or N1, however, might take 2 to 3 years of consistent effort. Keep in mind that even some long-time learners haven’t reached N1!
The best way to prepare for the JLPT combines multiple strategies: taking mock exams, joining a prep course, using varied study materials, immersing yourself in Japanese media, and, most importantly, being consistent.
Everyone learns differently, so there’s no single approach that works for everyone. The key is to find a routine that fits your goals and stick to it. Here are some tips:
1. Set up a study schedule
If you’re serious about passing the JLPT, especially with a high score, you need a realistic and consistent study plan. Design a daily or weekly schedule that includes time for vocabulary, grammar, reading, and listening.
For example:
Learn 10–20 new vocabulary words and kanji each day.
Dedicate one day a week to reading practice or mock test review.
Review previous content regularly to reinforce memory.
You never want to cram your JLPT exam preparation, especially for higher levels.
2. Take mock exams
Practice exams help you get familiar with the JLPT format and time constraints. Simulating real test conditions helps reduce anxiety and improves time management. It also reveals your weak points so you can focus your efforts more efficiently.
Pro tip: For N2 and N1, where reading, vocabulary, and grammar are combined into one long section, poor time management can cost you the entire reading section. Practice under timed conditions to develop your pacing.
3. Join a JLPT prep course
While it’s entirely possible to prepare for the JLPT on your own, many learners find that structured guidance and support make a huge difference.
Joining a course like the JLPT prep course at Coto Academy gives you access to expert teachers, well-organized lessons, and high-quality study materials. Plus, there will be classmates who share your goal, creating a motivating and encouraging environment.
Coto Academy’s JLPT courses cover everything you need to succeed, from essential grammar and vocabulary to kanji and exam strategies. Whether you prefer a focused three-month intensive program or a year-round course, we offer options for all JLPT levels!
3. Gather study materials
To effectively prepare for the JLPT, it’s essential to use a mix of study tools. Combining different resources helps reinforce your skills in kanji, vocabulary, grammar, reading, and listening, and keeps your study sessions more engaging.
Textbooks: JLPT-specific textbooks like the Shin Kanzen Master or TRY! series are great for targeted practice in grammar, vocabulary, and reading. We’ve curated a list of the best JLPT textbooks to help you choose the right one.
Online Resources & Apps: Make use of websites, mobile apps, and online platforms designed for JLPT learners. Need recommendations? Check out our blog on the best Japanese learning apps.
Flashcards: Flashcards are great for memorizing vocabulary and kanji. Tools like Anki, which use spaced repetition, can make your study more efficient. We’ve also created a guide to help you get started with Anki and listed our favorite Japanese decks.
4. Read newspapers and watch the news
This is especially helpful for JLPT N2 and N1 learners, where the reading section becomes more advanced. Anime can help you learn Japanese, but it might not be able to prepare you for JLPT N1.
Instead, you can switch to content that uses more formal and natural Japanese, like:
Japanese news (NHK, ANN on YouTube)
Newspapers and articles
TV shows that require concentration
Keep a dictionary handy and look up unfamiliar words as you read or listen. The more you expose yourself to real-world Japanese, the more comfortable you’ll become with kanji, grammar patterns, and idiomatic expressions.
Best JLPT textbooks
There are many great textbooks you can buy to prepare for the JLPT, ranging from those that cover a lot of test elements to specialized ones that cover only vocabulary.
Some of our top recommendations include:
1. Genki
Best for: Beginners (N5 – N4)
If you’re enrolled in a Japanese language class, chances are you’ll be using either Genki or Minna no Nihongo. Both offer a solid foundation in grammar, vocabulary, and kanji through clear explanations.
While it doesn’t specifically target JLPT N5 or N4, its content closely aligns with what you’ll need to pass those levels.
2. Minna no Nihongo
Best for: Beginners (N5 – N4)
Another go-to for beginners, Minna no Nihongo is used by a lot of language schools in Japan. It’s more grammar-focused than Genki and written mostly in Japanese, which really helps with immersion.
It does come with a translation and grammar guide in your language, so you won’t get lost.
3. Try! Japanese Language Proficiency Test
Best for: All levels
The Try! series is a favorite among JLPT test-takers because it’s made specifically for each JLPT level. It walks you through grammar with clear explanations, real-life example sentences, and practice questions that feel just like the actual test.
What’s great is how it breaks things down into three simple steps: first, you see how grammar is used in real conversations, then you get to practice the basics, and finally, you apply what you’ve learned through listening and reading exercises. Each book also comes with an audio CD and a separate answer booklet!
4. Shin Kanzen Master
Best for: Intermediate to advanced (N3 – N1)
The Shin Kanzen Master series is one of the most thorough JLPT prep resources out there for serious learners aiming for a high score on N2 or N1.
Each book focuses on a specific section of the test: grammar, vocabulary, reading, or listening, and goes into impressive detail. The vocabulary book, for example, is split into two parts: the first helps you learn words based on themes and everyday situations, while the second breaks them down by part of speech and usage.
There’s also a mock test section so you can get a feel for the real exam.
5. Tango Vocabulary Series
Best for: Vocabulary practice for all levels
This compact, almost pocket-sized vocabulary book comes with a red plastic sheet that lets you hide the Japanese vocabulary for self-review.
Each book is tailored to a specific JLPT level and organizes vocabulary by theme, like hobbies, family, and adverbs. It’s especially great for building a daily study habit and perfect for learners who want quick, portable practice sessions on the go.
6. Nihongo So Matome
Best for: N3–N1 prep with lighter content
This series is designed to be completed in a short time (around 6 weeks per book). It’s great for learners who prefer visual aids and concise explanations. It’s not as in-depth as Shin Kanzen Master, but it’s great for reinforcing key concepts efficiently.
Of course, there are other great textbooks! We’ve made a full coverage of the best JLPT textbooks you can get based on each level:
If you’re planning to take the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT), it’s important to know when and how to register. The registration period opens a few months before the exam date, but the exact timing depends on where you plan to take the test.
In Japan:
For the July exam, registration usually opens around mid-March.
For the December exam, registration starts around mid-August.
Outside Japan:
For the July exam, registration is typically open from March to April.
For the December exam, registration usually runs from August to September.
Since these dates can vary by location, the best way to stay updated is visiting the official JLPT website.
How to register for the JLPT:
Create a MyJLPT account: This online account is your portal to managing your test registration and viewing your results later on.
Complete the online application: Fill out your personal details, choose your test level, and select your test location.
Make your payment: Test fees are generally around 5,500 yen but can vary by country and test center. Your registration isn’t complete until payment is confirmed.
Test seats can fill up fast, especially in popular locations. Make sure to register as soon as the application window opens to secure your spot.
Your JLPT results will be available online approximately two months after your test date. You can check them by logging into your MyJLPT account, where you’ll get instant access to your scores.
For those residing in Japan, the official physical certificate will be mailed to your registered address on a scheduled date. Once you receive it, you can also request an official transcript, which can be sent out right away.
If you need your results urgently, you may apply for express delivery of your transcript.
Want a detailed, step-by-step breakdown? Check out our full blog post on how to view your JLPT results!
We already have a dedicated blog post with practical tips for test day (check it out!), but here are some essential reminders to keep in mind before and during the exam:
1. Bring an analog watch
Sometimes the wall clock is behind you or in a hard-to-see spot. Having your own watch helps you manage time without looking suspicious. Just make sure it’s not a smartwatch, as those are strictly prohibited.
2. Pack extra supplies
Bring multiple sharpened pencils and an extra eraser — better safe than sorry! You don’t want to be stuck with a broken pencil halfway through a timed section.
3. Answer every question
There’s no penalty for wrong answers, so make sure you fill in something for every question, especially if time is running out. Guessing is better than leaving anything blank — you’ve got nothing to lose!
4. Arrive early
It might sound obvious, but make sure to get to the test center at least 30–45 minutes before the exam starts. This buffer time allows you to check in, find your seat, and mentally prepare without feeling rushed. It’s also a great time to visit the restroom — while there are breaks between test sections, you can expect long lines, so going beforehand can save you unnecessary stress.
Plan to take the JLPT? Join a JLPT prep Course at Coto Academy!
Preparing for the JLPT on your own can be challenging. With Coto Academy’s online and in-person JLPT prep courses, you’ll do more than just pass — you’ll unlock your full potential, reach your target score, and go beyond.
Our expert instructors guide you through all test sections, with classes available in Tokyo and online. You can choose between a 3-month intensive course or take more structured, year-round lessons. Ready to get started? Contact us today for a Japanese-level assessment and a free consultation to find the perfect course for you!
Don’t believe us? See our past JLPT success rate story. Love our content and want more free resources on JLPT grammar and vocabulary? Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel, where we share new learning materials every week.
FAQ
What is the JLPT?
The Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is a standardized exam that measures and certifies your Japanese language ability. It has five levels: N5 (beginner) to N1 (advanced).
When is the JLPT held?
The JLPT is offered twice a year, typically in July and December. In some countries, it may only be available once a year, so check the official JLPT website or your local test center.
Where can I take the JLPT?
The JLPT is administered in over 90 countries and regions worldwide. Most major cities have test centers. You can find the full list of test locations on the official JLPT website.
How much does the JLPT cost?
The test fee is generally around 5,500 yen (approximately $50 USD), but fees may vary depending on the country or test site.
What is the passing score for the JLPT?
Passing requires meeting both the overall score and minimum sectional score requirements. Each level has different passing criteria, but generally, you need around 60% overall and a minimum score in each section.
Can I take the JLPT multiple times?
Yes, you can take the JLPT as many times as you want. Many learners retake the exam to improve their scores or advance to higher levels.
Can I pass JLPT N5 in 3 months?
If you study intensively and daily, you might be able to pass JLPT N5 within 3 – 6 months.
Whether you’re just beginning your Japanese studies or already at an advanced level, chances are you will still encounter unfamiliar words that leave you reaching for a dictionary. Whether it’s through an app or a traditional paper dictionary, having the right tool can make all the difference.
As interest in the Japanese language continues to grow, despite its reputation as one of the most challenging languages to learn so does the number of available Japanese dictionaries. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right one? In this article, we will be reviewing the most popular Japanese dictionaries across categories, from paper dictionaries to smartphone apps.
What Makes a Good Japanese Dictionary?
A good Japanese-to-English dictionary is a must-have tool for all learners of the language. These dictionaries helps us learn Japanese faster and more efficiently. It must have 100% accuracy and be up-to-date, meaning that it must be updated every few years. Looking at the learner level the dictionary is at is also very important, as a beginner isn’t going to be using or learning the same words as someone getting ready to take the JLPT N1.
And lastly, having key features in the dictionary to help users retain more of what they are reading will be useful. This could include having some basic grammar worksheet usage. So, depending on what you are looking for, these key distinctions will help you in deciding which dictionary it is that you may need and can get the most use out of.
Traditional paper dictionaries have been used by people for many years. Because they are printed, they are a reliable source of the most accurate and detailed explanations for words and sentences. Here are our recommended paper dictionaries for Japanese learners.
Widely referenced as the most comprehensive English-Japanese dictionary available. It has an all-inclusive word bank of 22,000 words with the support of 190,000 sample questions. It includes Japanese translations for common words, technical terms, and even slang. Additionally, phrasal verbs, specific expressions, idioms, and related grammar points are also included. Most importantly, there is furigana to ensure users the ease of reading.
2.Oxford Beginner’s Japanese Dictionary (Multilingual Edition)
This highly rated dictionary was designed to help English-speaking learners have a comprehensive and straightforward introduction to Japanese. It covers vocabulary needed within the first year of study, has notes on grammar, and overall helps guide readers on the culture of Japan. They provide clear examples to show how the language will be used in varying contexts, and is overall well-organized. One of its key features, too, is that the dictionary is split into two sections: The first, where words are organized alphabetically in Japanese, then the second part is organized alphabetically in English.
If you are an absolute beginner and would like a dictionary that matches your beginner level, we recommend you use this. It is a basic English-Japanese and Japanese-English dictionary with 30,000 applicable basic Japanese words. As its name suggests, there is always furigana on top of every kanji in the dictionary to assist the user as they read. Despite having a smaller word bank, the explanations for each term are precise and comprehensive. For example, words are explained with thousands of examples of sentences. Differences in the usage of similar words are clarified in the dictionary. In conclusion, this is the first Japanese dictionary for beginners.
If you feel that it is too troublesome flipping through thousands of pages on a paper dictionary, you may consider getting an electronic one. Electronic Japanese dictionaries are portable, fast and with useful features such as kanji writing recognition and integrated audio. Some may also have multiple dictionaries stored. This allows you to avoid the trouble of carrying a heavy book around.
Electronic dictionaries have one big weakness – most Japanese electronic dictionaries are built for Japanese English learners. Therefore, the user interface is in Japanese most of the time. If you are a beginner in Japanese, we do not recommend you to get one.
The price of an electronic dictionary depends on its features and the number of dictionaries stored. While older models with basic functions cost less than 40 US dollars, some newer models have more features and bigger word banks are priced up to $500.
Because of the convenient translation websites and apps today, it is almost pointless to spend money on simple electronic dictionaries. As such, we advise you to purchase a newer model with better features. Specific models we recommend is Casio’s ED 9800 Series. It is the comprehensive English-Japanese dictionary series with the latest features. The latest model has the largest word bank supported by 20 English-Japanese dictionaries and 11 Japanese-Japanese dictionaries. Some online dictionaries have audiobooks attached to them, so users are able to double-check what they are saying sounds the same (or similar) to native speakers.
Best Online Japanese Dictionaries and Apps
If you are looking for an easy solution that is also free, we recommend you use an online dictionary and ap dictionary. Online dictionaries and apps only require your phone or laptop and an internet connection (some are even available totally offline). They are extremely convenient, easily accessible, and suitable for most people. Here are our recommended online dictionaries and apps.
1. Weblio
Weblio
Weblio is the largest Japanese dictionary website with about 11,370,000 words recorded. You can simply search for the English explanation of a Japanese word or vice versa. Detailed explanations from different dictionaries will be listed with example sentences, phrases, and related words. However, because of the Japanese UI, this website is only recommended to upper beginners and above.
This is a powerful English-Japanese online dictionary with a simple user interface and easy-to-use functions. Advanced search options allow you to search for Japanese translations, Kanji, example sentences, and names. You can also look for words by their radicals, drawings, and even voice input in both Japanese and English. And what is really great for Japanese learners is that you can identify words based on their JLPT level. The Kanji from the words will also be listed on the right with their pronunciations and meanings. This online dictionary is extremely suitable for self-learners.
Rated the highest on Google Play, this is one of the best free offline Japanese dictionaries for Android. You can search for words using romaji, kana, kanji or alphabets. Additionally, you can also search for the translation of complete sentences – just like jisho.org, you can search for kanji by their radicals. Other useful features, such as flashcards and custom word lists, make it even more convenient for use by learners. If you are using an Android device, we highly recommend this app.
A wordplay on the Japanese phrase “What’s the meaning?”, Imiwa is a popular free offline multilingual Japanese dictionary for iPhone. Like the one introduced above, this app also has a strong search engine that allows you to search by meaning, romaji, kanji or alphabet. Of course, you can also search for a Kanji by radicals or by drawing it out. Animated stroke order diagrams, pronunciations, and definitions of the kanji are shown in many languages. For revision, you can review the words in your search history and create your vocabulary lists. Many users rate this dictionary highly and recommend it online.
“Japanese” is a comprehensive offline Japanese dictionary for both Android and iPhone. It compiles every useful feature you can find in other Japanese dictionary apps. There are over 175,000 entries and 58,000 example sentences in this app, covering every word you would see. Moreover, it is more than just a dictionary. For users sitting for the JLPT or the Kanji Kentei, it has ready-built study lists for each level to properly prepare.
ALC is a well-established name in Japan’s language-learning world, known for its dependable and comprehensive resources. Its flagship online dictionary, Eijirou (英辞郎), is especially popular among professionals, including translators, thanks to its extensive database of example sentences, collocations, idiomatic phrases, and technical terms that are often missing from other dictionaries.
This dictionary helps learners understand specialized vocabulary and how people use it in different contexts.
If you’re learning Japanese and use a phone or iPad, Nihongo is one of the best dictionary apps you can get your hands on. The app was developed by Japanese learner Chris Vasselli and is designed for students and fellow learners.
What makes Nihongo stand out is its seamless mix of dictionary and study tools. It automatically creates flashcards from words you look up, lets you add photos to help with memory, and shows whether a word is common, uncommon, or rare.
There are also some clever features that make learning smoother. The app includes a Safari extension that adds furigana to kanji on websites, a handwriting tool for when you don’t know a Kanji’s reading, and a “Clippings” feature that lets you save real Japanese text and study it later. You can even trace words you’ve saved back to the original content they came from.
Kotobank is a Japanese-language online encyclopedia that lets you search across a wide range of dictionaries, encyclopedias, and databases.
It’s a go-to tool when you want quick, reliable definitions or need to better understand the deeper meaning of a Japanese term. The definitions often provide more nuance and cultural context than you’d get from a simple translation.
Linguee is a free online dictionary that supports multiple language pairs, including Japanese, German, Spanish, and more, translated from English. It’s easy to use and doesn’t require an account or login, which makes it a convenient tool for quick lookups.
What really sets Linguee apart is its vast number of example sentences. In addition to basic, tool-generated examples, it pulls real-world sentences from external sources like multilingual websites. These examples provide richer context and help you see words or phrase in natural writing. While not every translation is perfect due to the lack of manual review, this dictionary is still an excellent resource for learners.
Tagaini Jisho is a free Japanese-English dictionary app available for both Mac and Windows. While the interface may look dated, the platform offers a wide range of features that are useful for serious learners. You can filter vocabulary by JLPT level, parts of speech, or kanji elements, making it great for targeted study. It even includes Kanji stroke order animations to help with writing practice.
Other standout features include the ability to add custom tags and notes to entries, create flashcards, and even print out study booklets using foldable templates. These print-friendly sheets are perfect if you prefer offline learning or want something to carry around in your pocket.
“Shirabe Jisho” is owned by the same users who made Jisho.org, so now having a mobile interface that can be used in both Japanese-English or English-Japanese makes it all the better in our books. Its reliability stands out for users as well, with it having 4.9 stars out of 5 with over 7,500 ratings.
There are many ways to go about learning Japanese, let alone many options for dictionaries. Take time for yourself and think about what will work best for you and your learning needs before you purchase your next dictionary. What are some features that you think will help you better comprehend Japanese? You could maybe trial a few to see what works best for you before totally submitting to one!
If you’re looking for in-person practice or one-on-one help from a native speaker, Coto Academy may be what you need! With in-person classes or private online courses, Coto has a variety of options based on your needs to help you learn Japanese culture and language with ease!
If you are interested in studying Japanese in Tokyo, find out more about our school by filling out the form below. Courses can be found here.
FAQ
How do I translate Japanese words into English?
While it may vary dictionary-to-dictionary, most Japanese to English dictionaries have it so you can type or paste in the search box to be provided an instant search result. When it comes to physical dictionaries though, you can look it up alphabetically with the Japanese word.
How do I search for Japanese words and kanji?
There are many ways of doing this, especially depending on if it’s a physical or e-book. Sometimes you can look it up using a search box, by category, stroke count, or by radicals.
Should you take the JLPT N5 exam?
Through studying Japanese, taking the JLPT N5 exam may be a great way to stay motivated and see your hard work get good use. It is a good learning experience regardless of the score received, and helps to build structure in your learning goals and skills.
What is the Japanese word for dictionary?
The Japanese word for dictionary is 辞書（じしょ / jisho).
Let’s face it: Japanese YouTube channels redefine what it means to go above and beyond for online entertainment.
Content creators in Japan wear a lot of faces — both literally and figuratively. They’re propelled by outlandish challenges, mukbangs and squeamish close-ups of fish cutting. We’re talking about consuming ten packs of fire noodles in one seating and cracking open sea cucumbers and poisonous starfish.
But behind the questionably thick veil of Japanese Youtubers, a lot of Japanese Youtube channels have dedicated themselves to helping their international audience learn the Japanese language and culture, proving that YouTube can be an educational platform, too.
So where do you go when you’re looking to climb out of the rabbit hole of freaky Japanese content — and into something more, say, digestible?
Of all the many gathered in the digital creative landscape, we’ve collected 50 of our top Japanese YouTube channels you should subscribe to. A lot of them provide free online Japanese learning resources.
Regardless of whether you’re a beginner, intermediate or advanced, there are Japanese YouTube channels waiting for you.
We’re breaking them down into three categories: Teachers, vloggers and Japanese culture content creators.
Don’t know where to start? Check out Coto’s YouTube account or Coto’s blog section for more helpful Japanese tips and learning materials.
Recommended for beginners, JapanesePod101 is a channel that covers topics ranging from grammar to vocabulary to reading and many more! It is a verified Japanese Youtube channel with over 2.3 million subscribers. They would host daily YouTube live streams for Japanese listening, speaking and writing.
This channel has listening practices. Not only that, the videos give you practice and they have romaji and Japanese words on the screen. It would be easy to follow. Their videos cater to both English and Chinese learners.
This channel has listening practices. Not only that, the videos give you practice and they have romaji and Japanese words on the screen. It would be easy to follow. Their videos cater to both English and Chinese learners.
Minori is perfect for beginners learning N5 and N4 who want to take a challenge. All of their videos are in Japanese to hone your listening skills, but you can always turn on their multilingual subtitles if the lesson goes a bit too hard. The YouTube channel uploads almost daily, and all of the Japanese tutorials are designed for students to map smooth progress. They break down vocabularies, grammar structures and questions. You will also have a practice session at the end.
There’s an ongoing debate among the Japanese learning community about textbooks: Minna no Nihongo, or Genki? Helmed by Rose, you pick the prior, then NihonGoal is the perfect YouTube channel to walk you through the book. They break down the study into three series: vocabulary, grammar and Kanji. Rose isn’t a native Japanese speaker, though, so if you are focusing on speaking and Japanese pronunciation, head somewhere else.
Andy’s presence is unmatched. Combining playful monologues and great presentation skills, Tokini Andy becomes a channel to help Japanese learners nail Japanese conversational fluency — all while having fun. The textbooks he uses are also the Genki books, and his videos are aptly slow and practical. You’ll get sample sentences, extra tips for Japanese grammar and useful vocabulary. He also has his own Patreon.
If you hear him blindfolded, you might assume he’s a Japanese — or at the very least, a hafu — but Dogen is one of the few talented international Youtuber who just so happens to nail that spot-on Japanese native-level accent. His YouTube channel primarily consists of comedic skits and quirky storytelling about very relatable Japanese antics that foreigners will understand if they live in Japan long enough. You can head to his Patreon for more thorough (and serious) Japanese phonetic lessons.
Japanese Ammo with Misa is flexible for both beginners and advanced learners. She gives lessons on Japanese grammar and vocabulary. There are also videos for useful Japanese phrases as well as topics on Japanese culture. The channel has many playlists that can help you enhance your Japanese learning.
Miku’s videos are a fun and effective way of learning Japanese. Her playlist has grammar and listening to videos for practice for beginner to intermediate learners. Not only that, you can practice your speaking skill, as well as she has a playlist called “speak with me”. She also does videos on learning Japanese with Terrace House as it would be interesting and fun to take it out of the classroom. You’ll also have access to extra videos if you sign up for her Patreon.
This is one of our recommended Japanese Youtube channels that’s perfect if you are considering taking the JLPT exam. The person goes through questions about how to answer and tips on how to answer them. He explains vocabulary to suit everyone’s needs. His videos have a variety of question papers from JLPT, kanji, grammar, hiragana, and katakana. As for JLPT, he has N5 to N2 practice papers which he goes through it. He also does a video on the MEXT scholarship exam.
Learn Japanese Online with BondLingo upload videos about the Japanese language and cultures. Not only are there online lessons, but there are apps on mobile as well. Their playlist consists of the JLPT practice exam – grammar, N5 to N2 but also pronunciation videos as well! They also have live streams for Japanese study sessions, and it’s always good to join the room to make your learning journey less lonely.
This Japanese Youtuber gives free videos for JLPT preparations ranging from all levels. His lessons are pretty laidback and chill, and he even has some content dedicated to learning Japanese from anime. He has a dedicated playlist called the Writing Systems for introductions to all aspects of the Japanese writing system: hiragana, katakana and kanji.
Learn Japanese From Zero is an informative channel that posts videos every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Every video goes through a respective lesson on the channel’s textbook, and materials are only available online. This makes it easy for anyone to learn Japanese and take notes. He also has his own Japanese textbook.
Yuko Sensei has been teaching Japanese at the university level for 20 years, so to say that she is a Japanese language expert would be a safe bet. Her videos discard any boring PowerPoint, and instead focuses on interactive color-coded animations to help you understand Japanese grammar, vocabulary, and scripts. For those learners who cannot attend classes or do not know where to start learning, this channel is good for online learning courses. She also offers free trial courses.
PuniPuniJapan’s videos are well-illustrated and narrated with clear explanations. It is more recommended for beginners who started learning Japanese. They cover topics such as katakana, grammar, vocabulary and more. Besides that, PuniPuniJapan also uploads videos about Japanese culture.
The channel provides step by step learning. They have different episodes and on the episodes, they teach learners different topics such as negative state, adjectives and sentence ending. This channel has a lot of different variables when it comes to learning Japanese. Their video areas are very classroom-based and it is very easy to follow.
ライト Japanese Library features Light, who is a foreigner who speaks Japanese, English, and Afrikaans. On his channel, he has videos teaching Japanese as well as some daily vlogs with his daughter. He also gives many different tips for living in Japan.
This channel is good to learn Japanese because their videos are in songs. Their videos are appealing and it is easy to follow as they have Japanese words plus English words are well. Not only that, their videos are all about Japanese vocabularies.
It is very easy to learn Japanese grammar and kanji on this channel. Their videos have an animation of a teacher teaching. Their video content is also very easy to understand. Their kanji videos are step by step and it teaches you basic kanji and how to write it.
This channel is very good at making simplifying Japanese and making it easier to understand. Their videos are taught by an “android sensei”. Their explanations are very good and their content is original and engaging. Her methods of teaching Japanese are a little unorthodox, but very effective. Unfortunately, the owner of the channel has passed away, but the channel remains up and is still a very good resource.
This channel is good to learn basic Japanese because they make learning videos into songs so it would be easier to learn. The videos are interesting as well. They only have 1 playlist of videos such as day of the week song or the hiragana song. This channel is good for both adults and children.
わさび or Wasabi is a Japanese Vtuber teacher that makes videos that are great for Beginner and Intermediate learners. She makes grammar and listening videos as well as a lot of YouTube shorts that go over vocab words. She is a much smaller creator, and is able to respond to a lot of questions in her comments.
Nami Ohara is another tJapanese grammar, vocabulary, and listening. Also, there are many videos on Japanese culture. Another feature of this channel is that there are many listening quizzes and tests for you to practice your listening skills. Not only that, they have many videos on learning Japanese through songs.
This channel is great for beginners in learning Japanese. Masa Sensei, the creator of this channel, makes weekly videos on Japanese grammar. In every video, she explains what grammar means and how to apply it. She also gives clear illustrations and examples in her videos.
This channel is very good for Intermediate and Advanced learners. Sambon Juku has multiple playlists for everything from Phrases to Hiragana. He also has series going over N3, N2 and N1. He has very clear explanations and example sentences. His videos are narrated in Japanese, but he also has English subtitles if needed.
myjapanese is a channel covering levels from beginner to advanced. The topics covered are hiragana, kanji, JLPT, and business Japanese. There are many informative videos and are all well narrated and explained in English. The channel posts a new video every week.
Watching anime and Japanese TV programs is a great vehicle to accelerate your Japanese skill. Easy Peasy Japanesey disects scenes from iconic anime like Attack on Titan and Demon Slayer and breaks down the Japanese vocabularies and grammar structure involved. It’s a great, seemingly effortless away to learn Japanese — just don’t binge watch them all at once if you’re an anime fan who’s avoiding gut-wrenching, tear-inducing spoilers.
Yumi Ura is a channel that is especially good for Japanese students preparing to take the JLPT N2 and N3 level tests. All the videos in this channel are on topics for the N2 and N3-level tests. Their videos allow viewers to practice their listening skills as it is everything is explained Japanese.
Japanization is good for learning basic Japanese. Started by a native Japanese, he makes lesson videos on Japanese grammar and vocabulary, as well as on different aspects of Japanese culture. He explains well in English in every video too. Thus, making it easy for non-Japanese listeners to follow.
Registering for a JLPT exam can be unnerving, let alone preparing for it. Enter Clayton MacKnight, your perfect virtual study buddy. He’s currently residing in Osaka and has recently passed N2. His channel that features a variety of videos to help those taking JLPT. Expect all things Japanese covered in his channels, from grammar and kanji to study guides to Japanese culture. It’s also great to get a learning support from a foreigner. The videos have graphic illustrations to them more engaging. .
Michiyo Wojnovich is a good channel for those learning Japanese with Genki textbooks. All the videos on the channel cover topics from the Genki textbooks. The teacher, Michiyo, narrates and explains each topic in every video in English.
Japonin is a channel that can help learners to improve and enhance their Japanese reading skills. There are many videos that feature a text with clear narration. There are also various cultural topics such as ‘imported words’ and ‘origami’ for learners to enhance their Japanese culture knowledge.
Plain Japanese’s online lessons are being taught by a native Japanese teacher. Their videos are well-illustrated and explained, covering many different topics on the Japanese language such as grammar and kanji. There are also other informative videos such as ‘Japanese Greetings’ and ‘Counting Numbers in Japanese’.
You can leave it up to Jerome Polin to give you a full angle of what it’s like to live in Japan as a university student. As a MEXT scholarship awardee, Jerome is enrolled at Waseda University. His videos started from a humble ground: to help potential Japanese international students learn Japanese and kickstart their life here. It didn’t take long for his channel to skyrocket. After several vlogs, collaborations and fun challenges with his university friends, Jerome quickly grew to be the biggest star in Japan’s creator platform. Now, he has more than 7.5 million subscribers, and the numbers aren’t slowing down.
This channel is good for learning Japanese because they do vlogs about their daily lives. The channel, started by a Japanese husband and an American wife, who are both living in Japan. Rachel would speak in English while her husband would speak in Japanese. Sometimes both would speak each other’s languages. Their videos have Japanese subtitles so it would be easy to follow and learn about new words. Their videos are very interesting and sometimes funny too. They do not post on their main channel anymore, but still regularly upload on ‘Rachel & Jun’s Adventures!‘
Abroad in Japan does vlogs which talk about how his interreaction experience with the Japanese culture and people here. Some of his interesting vlogs are “how to lose weight in Japan” and “Japanese thoughts on London magic man”
Life Where I’m From has a series of Japanese documentaries and life in Japan starring their children. They give interesting and educational insight into their everyday. They also show how is life in Japan through a series of vlogs.
A Japanese Youtube celebrity with over 1.4 million subscribers. Her channel has videos in both English and Japanese. Having moved to America at a young age, she has many things to learn about Japan and shares about them on her channel. She also shared many vlogs on her daily life.
The name of this Youtuber is pretty self-explanatory. Tokyo Lens offers an interesting, otherwise unseen, angle to Japan. From exploring Japan’s smallest apartment to visiting Japan’s most active volcano, his videos provide a unique take on living in Japan.
Like lol,jk, and even XD; Japanese people have their own version of internet slang and texting lingo — also known as ネットスラング (netto surangu). Have you ever tried using social media, like Facebook, YouTube, or Twitter, in Japanese? Scoured across comments sections, posts, and message boards are letters and symbols being used in ways you’ve never encountered before. You may recognize the English letters, but they don’t make a lick of sense to you. So you may be thinking, what on earth does everything mean?
You have just been exposed to Japanese internet slang, and just like English internet slang, it looks more like secret codes rather than language you would learn in the classroom. While they are widely used to communicate online, Japanese internet slang terms are often not officially recognized in the Japanese language, nor are they found in Japanese textbooks.
However, despite this, in order to use the most common social media platforms or text your friends, Japanese internet slang is essential to know. So, let’s learn some of the most common internet slang you will come across so you can navigate the internet in Japanese and actually understand what people are saying!
Basics of Japanese Internet Slang
スラング (surangu) is a loanword from English that means “slang” and ネット (netto) is just “net” from “internet”. As with any language, you’ll come across numerous words, expressions, and abbreviations that are exclusively used on the internet or in text messages. Japanese internet slang terms can be challenging to understand because they don’t follow the same rules as standard Japanese.
Unlike the regular Japanese writing systems, Japanese internet and texting slang use romaji (ローマ字), or the roman alphabet, much more frequently. They are often shorter and more casual, incorporating English words and expressions. Additionally, they can change rapidly over time, making it essential to stay up-to-date with the latest trends.
If you want to learn more practical Japanese, one of the best ways to understand this slang and lingo is by practicing with native speakers. Schools like Coto Academy focus on conversational Japanese and can help you build confidence through real-life practice.
Japanese slang often employs wordplay, abbreviations, acronyms, and puns that may be difficult to decipher without some understanding of Japanese culture and context. For example, a typical Japanese slang term “JK” refers to “joshi kousei,” which means high school girl, but the abbreviation itself doesn’t necessarily indicate its meaning to non-native speakers.
Take a look at an example to demonstrate how Japanese internet slang might not make sense despite its use of English letters:
どこかから DQN が 現れて わりこんでいったよ！ムカつく！ Doko ka kara DQN ga arawarete warikonde itta yo! Mukatsuku! A DQN appeared out of nowhere and cut in line! So annoying!
You might have noticed the word “DQN” sticks out among Japanese characters. Pronounced ‘Dokyun’, it came from a variety show called Mugumi! Dokyun, which gave life advice to struggling couples. Now, it’s used to describe someone who is stupid and acts without thinking. Because it’s written in romaji, you might assume it’s a typo, but it was completely intentional. However, please note that this term can be seen as insulting or even derogatory.
Just like in English, saying texting slang out loud might be a little out of place, so for in-person conversations, check out our blog: Top 30 Japanese Slangs
Popular Japanese Internet Slang Terms Used on Social Media
Using social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube is super fun (and addicting), but it’s essential to know the text slang terms that are everywhere. This is especially true for Twitter, where brevity is key and phrases need to be shortened, or in text messages, where speed is essential. Let’s check out some awesome Japanese text slang terms frequently used online!
1. 飯テロ (Meshi Tero)
Reading:meshi tero Meaning: food terror
Do you ever see a photo of really delicious food and get upset that you can’t eat it? This is exactly what 飯テロ is talking about! 飯 (meshi) means food, and テロ (tero) means terror or terrorist; combined, they refer to the act of uploading such pictures on social media that make people hungry (especially late at night)! The more appetizing the food, the more テロ (tero) is unleashed!
Example:
彼はパスタの写真をあげて、飯テロした。 Kare wa pasuta no shashin o agete, meshi tero shita. When he uploaded those photos of pasta, he did “food terror.”
2. リア充 (Riajuu)
Reading:riajuu Meaning: Someone who has a fulfilling life offline
We all know it’s not good to spend too much time on the internet. But, for many of us, the internet is key to countless hobbies and interests. However, for リア充, most of their happiness comes from the real world.
Taken from the phrase リアルが充実している (riaru ga juujitsu site iru), which means one’s real-world life is fulfilling, リア充 are usually characterized by having significant others, many friends irl, non-internet-based hobbies, and active lifestyles. In other words, they have a satisfying life away from the internet!
Example:
彼女はピアノを弾いたり、絵を描くのが好きです。リア充です！ Kanojo wa piano o hiitari, e o kakitari suru noga suki desu. Riajuu desu! She likes to play piano and paint; she is a riajuu!
3. w or 笑 (Wara)
Reading: wara Meaning: laughing
This is the Japanese version of LOL! The “w” or 笑 (wara) is taken from the beginning part of the verb 笑う (warau), which means “to laugh.” Just like LOL, it’s usually used at the end of a sentence, and the more w’s you add (i.e., wwww), the harder you are laughing. 笑 is usually seen as the more “mature” way to write this, but many just use “w” instead.
Example:
うちの猫、私の枕で寝てるwwww Uchi no neko, watashi no makura de neteru wara My cat is sleeping on my pillow lolll
4. 草 (Kusa)
Reading: kusa Meaning: lol / something hilarious
草 literally means “grass.” It became slang because many “w” characters (wwwww) used for laughter look like grass growing on the screen. So 草 became shorthand meaning “that’s hilarious.” This is very common on forums, gaming chats, and TikTok comments.
Example:
その写真は草生える Sono shashin wa kusa haeru. That picture is hilarious (lit. “grass is growing”).
No words, or even letters, what could a phrase made up of only 8’s mean? Remember that the Japanese love to use onomatopoeia. The onomatopoeia for “clapping” is pachi-pachi-pachi, and eight can be read as either hachi or pachi. So, if you put a bunch of 8’s next to each other, you get the clapping sound when you read it! Most of the time, you will use this to denote congratulations. Just like with “w”, the more 8’s you write, the more clapping you are doing.
Example:
言語学の学位をとったんですね! 888 Gengogaku no gakui o tottan desune! Pachi pachi pachi You got your degree in Linguistics! (clap, clap, clap)
6. フロリダする (Furorida Suru)
Reading: furorida suru Meaning: to leave a conversation to have a bath
Yes, this does sound like Florida, but it has nothing to do with the state. Instead, this particular verb is actually a combination of the words furo (bath) and ridatsu (to withdraw), and refers to leaving a conversation (either online or through text) to hop in the tub or shower. A lot of Japanese people soak in the bath before bed, so this word probably came about because so many people take a break from the conversation for their routine bath.
Example:
彼女は、8:45にフロリダした。 Kanojo wa 8:45 ni furorida shita. She left the conversation to shower at 8:45.
7. KY (Keiwai)
Reading:keiwai Meaning: A person who cannot read the room
It may be strange to see the Roman alphabet here, but it will make sense in a little bit! KY comes from the expression 空気読めない (kuuki yomenai); this literally means to beunable to read the air. Instead of typing all this out, however, many Japanese people just take the “k” from kuuki and the “y” from yomenai to make this abbreviation!
People who are KY tend to behave in ways considered inappropriate for the situation at hand or are simply oblivious to what is happening around them. This is definitely not something you would want to be called!
彼氏と別れたばかりの友だちの前で、自分の彼氏自慢とか、あの子、KYすぎ。 Kareshi to wakareta bakari no tomodachi no mae de, jibun no kareshi jiman toka, ano ko, KY-sugi. In front of a friend who just broke up with her boyfriend, she boasts about her boyfriend, and that girl (can’t read the room).
Reading: nau Meaning: Doing something right now, at a place right now
A lot of people like to use social media to show people what they’re up to. Sometimes, this means letting people know what they’re doing as they’re doing it! If you want to say what you’re doing now, you can just use the word なう (nau)… which sounds almost like now. This makes it pretty easy to remember!
Example:
京都なう/ たこ焼きナウ Kyouto nau / takoyaki nau I’m in Kyoto now / I’m eating takoyaki right now
9. 乙 (Otsu)
Reading:otsu Meaning: Good job! Well done!
Ever want to congratulate someone online, maybe for a good round in a game or in a video comment? 乙 is perfect for this! 乙 stands in for the Japanese phrase お疲れ様でした (otsukare sama deshita), which means thank you for your hard work. Many times, this is said at the end of a workday or after a big task. The kanji 乙 doesn’t have any relation to this phrase; it’s just used for its reading!
10. 炎上 (Enjou)
Reading: enjou Meaning: to be roasted on social media
Social media can be a wonderful place, but it can also be a harmful one as well; we’ve all seen how common it is for someone to be heavily criticized, or “roasted” online. Leaning into the fire (or roasting) analogy, Japanese netizens started using the word 炎上, which actually means flaming, to describe when this happens.
Example:
彼はそのパンツを履いて炎上した。 Kare wa sono pantsu o haite, enjou shita. When he wore those pants, he got roasted.
11. オワコン (Owakon)
Reading:owakon Meaning: Dated content, no-longer-current media
With new content and trends being created every minute, things can get dated on the internet pretty quickly. To talk about content that has already passed its prime, オワコン is the perfect word. It’s formed from a combination of 終わった (owatta, meaning finished) and コンテンツ (kontentsu, meaning contents).
Simply put, it’s content that’s finished being relevant! Now, I wonder how long it will take before this word goes out of date.
Example:
ゾンビ映画はオワコンになってしまった。 Zonbi eiga wa owakon ni natteshimatta. Zombie movies became dated content.
12. △ (Sankakkei)
Reading: sankakkei Meaning: Mr./Mrs.___ is cool.
We’ve gone through Japanese internet slang using Japanese abbreviations, Roman letters, and even numbers, but what on earth is a shape doing here? Well, it’s a little complicated. The Japanese word for a triangle is sankakukei, but most people pronounce it as sankakkei, as it’s easier.
The san- in the beginning is pronounced the same as さん, or the honorific title meaning Mr. / Mrs. Then, –kakkei is a short form ofかっこいい (kakkoii), which means cool or attractive. So, put them together, and you get a reading of a triangle that can also mean so-and-so is cool. It’s a play on words that also saves time typing! Japanese netizens often use it to refer to celebrities or anime characters.
Example:
みどりや△ 。 Midoriya san-kakkee. Mr. Midoriya is cool.
13. ずっ友
Reading: zuttomo Meaning: friends for life
We all know the abbreviation for BFF – Best Friends Forever. But what if you want to say this in Japanese? Turns out you can call your closest friends ずっ友! Like a lot of words on this list, ずっ友 is a combination of two words: ずっと (zutto), meaning forever, and 友達 (tomodachi), meaning friends. It was first used by young girls taking pictures together, but now everyone uses it, making it the perfect alternative to saying “cheese” when taking pictures with your closest friends!
Example:
旅行の後、ずっ友になりました。 Ryokou no ato, zuttomo ni narimashita. After their trip, they became BFFs.
14. Wkwk (Waku Waku)
Reading:wakuwaku Meaning: to be excited
If you’re a fan of the series SPYxFAMILY, one of the popular anime series on Netflix, you might already be familiar with ワクワク (wakuwaku). The all too adorable titular character, Anya, says all the time! ワクワク is an onomatopoeic word meant to imitate excitement!
However, if you’re really excited about something, you may not have the patience to type out the whole word! So many Japanese netizens just type wkwk instead, which is the first letter of each kana (wa, ku, wa,ku). You can use wkwk in a myriad of situations, such as starting a new hobby or finding out your adoptive dad is really a spy in disguise!
Example:
アニャはピーナッツを食べたがっています wkwk。 Anya wa piinattsu wo tabetagatteimasu wakuwaku. Anya wants to eat peanuts!
15. バズる (Bazuru)
Reading: bazuru Meaning: to go viral
バズる comes from the English word “buzz,” referring to online hype. If a tweet, TikTok, or video spreads rapidly and gets tons of engagement, people say it “buzzes.” This term is especially popular among influencers or anyone active on X (Twitter).
Example:
この動画、めっちゃバズってる！ Kono douga, meccha bazutteru! This video is totally going viral!
りょ(ryo) is a super-short version of 了解 (ryoukai), meaning “Roger that!” or “Understood!” It’s extremely common in casual text messages, especially among teens and young adults. Very similar to texting “k” or “got u” in English.
Example:
6時に駅集合で！ Roku-ji ni eki shuugō de! Meeting at the station at 6!
りょ！ Ryo! Got it!
17. 尊い (Toutoi)
Reading: toutoi Meaning: precious/divine/too pure (often used for fandoms)
尊い is a common slang term used especially in anime, idol, BL, or VTuber fandoms. It expresses feeling overwhelmed by how cute, beautiful, perfect, or emotionally powerful someone or something is. It’s closer to “I can’t handle this, it’s too precious.”
Often paired with crying emojis or kaomoji.
Example:
この2人のシーン、尊すぎる… Kono futari no shin, toutosugiru… This scene with these two is way too precious…
18. ググる (Guguru)
Reading: Guguru Meaning: To Google or to search online
This internet slang comes directly from the Japanese word for Google, グーグル (Guuguru), but it’s a bit shortened and transformed into a verb. You can use this phrase just like you would in English, when something like “we can just Google it.”
You can also conjugate it just like a typical Japanese verb: ググった (gugutta), ググらない (guguranai), ググります (gugurimasu), etc.
Example:
その映画の時間、ググってみて。 Sono eiga no jikan, gugutte mite. Try Googling the showtime for that movie.
19. サムネ (Samune)
Reading: Samune Meaning: Thumbnail
サムネ (Samune) is short for the Japanese word for thumbnail, サムネール. You will often see this word on video-sharing platforms, such as YouTube and TikTok. Whenever you want to talk about a video’s preview image, just refer to it as the サムネ.
Example:
そのビデオのサムネがすごく良かったから、バズったよ。 Sono bideo no samune ga sugoku yokatta kara, bazutta yo. The thumbnail for that video was really good, that’s why it went viral.
20. Ksk (Kasoku)
Reading: Kasoku Meaning: Faster
Ksk comes from the word Kasoku, 加速, which means to accelerate or go faster. It’s used very frequently across the internet, especially on messaging boards like 2chan or on live video chats. People often use it when they want something to go faster or speed up. It’s similar to saying “go, go, go!” or “faster!”
Reading: kita kore Meaning: “It’s here!!” / “Yes!!” / “Finally!!!”
ktkr is an abbreviation of キタコレ (kita kore), which is a colloquial, excited way of saying “it’s here!” in Japanese! People use it when something they’ve been waiting for finally happens: a game update, a teaser drop, a favorite streamer coming online, etc.
Example:
新しいPV出た！？ ktkr!! Atarashii PV deta!? ktkr!! The new promo video dropped!? It’s finally here!
Japanese Texting Culture: Kaomojis (*^_^*)
Finally, we can’t finish an article about Japanese internet and texting slang without touching on kaomoji. Kaomojis, or literally face characters, are simple faces or facial expressions created using different elements and symbols found on your keyboard. You can almost think of them as old-school emojis! Just like emojis, kaomojis help to make the meaning of your words clear and to emphasize certain feelings. There’s a lot of focus placed on the kaomoji eyes, which makes them very expressive and particularly appealing to Japanese netizens. Many users place them at the end of a sentence or idea, or even just by themselves!
A lot of kaomojis are clear as to what they mean, for example:
(^_^; ) – means being embarrassed
(-_-)zzz – means being asleep
(T_T) – means crying
Some aren’t as intuitive, for instance:
m(_ _)m – means being apologetic (bowing) with the “m” representing your hands and the “(_ _)” representing your head.
(＃`Д´) – meaning angry. This symbol, `Д´, represents an angry face with the “#” representing yelling.
However, the more you see kaomojis and get used to them, the more you will be able to pick up on their meaning! Check out the Kaomoji: Japanese Emoticons website if you ever need to find out what a particular kaomoji means!
Whether it’s on social media, online games, or just chatting with friends, slang is bound to pop up everywhere you go. Being well-versed in Japanese slang will not only help you navigate Japanese internet communities but also make new Japanese friends. Hopefully, now that you have this list of Japanese internet and texting slang, navigating the Japanese web will be a bit easier! The next time you reach that one word, you’ll already know what it means.
Want to talk more like a Japanese native and get more practice in speaking Japanese? Why not check out some of our classes at Coto Academy? We focus on fun, practical lessons. We also have online courses, which would be the perfect place to practice what you’ve just learned! Fill out the form below for a free level check and course consultation.
FAQ:
What are some popular Japanese internet slang terms and expressions used on social media platforms?
Some popular Japanese internet slang terms and expressions used on social media platforms include “w” (short for “warai” meaning laugh), 888 (pachi pachi pachi, meaning clapping), pkpk (pakupaku, meaning excited), and りょ(ryo, meaning “got it!).
Why is it important to know Japanese internet and text slang terms when communicating online with Japanese speakers?
Unlike Japanese spoken in real life, internet slangs make more use of abbreviations, acronyms, and even emoticons, which can be hard to understand if you don’t actually understand online Japanese lingo. Although these slang phrases aren’t found in textbooks (though they should start to be), they are essential if you want to actually communicate and engage people online in Japanese.
How do Japanese internet and text slang terms differ from traditional Japanese language?
Japanese internet and text slang terms differ from the traditional Japanese language in various ways. They are often shorter and more casual, incorporating English words and expressions. Additionally, they can change rapidly over time, making it essential to stay updated with the latest trends.
Can Japanese internet and text slang terms be offensive or inappropriate to use in certain situations?
Yes, some Japanese internet and text slang terms can be offensive or inappropriate to use in certain situations. It is crucial to understand the context and appropriateness of these terms to avoid offending others or using them in an inappropriate way. It’s always best to err on the side of caution when using internet slang in any language. Like any slang used across the internet, it’s best to understand the full context before deciding to use it yourself.
What’s the difference between kaomoji and emojis?
While both generally represent facial expressions, emojis are pictograms embedded in text, whereas kaomoji (lit. face characters) are created by the writer using symbols on the keyboard. They both serve a similar purpose to use emoticons to represent general emotions, but kaomoji can be harder to understand if you’re not used to recognizing what facial expression or emotion is being conveyed.
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While there is plenty of excitement about moving to Japan, you will eventually need to do your laundry. Now it may seem to be just another ordinary, often mundane, routine of everyday life in your home country, but do you know what all the buttons mean on a Japanese laundry machine? Suddenly, things got a lot more complicated.
Worry not! Most washing machines in Japan just need a push of a button or two, and like magic, your clothes spin through cycles until you need to take them out. But if you are still wondering about how to actually use a washer in Japan, keep on reading to discover what the different functions on the washing machine mean and how to use them!
There are a variety of washing machines in Japan, but the most common type that people own at home is the top-loading machine. Front-loading (drum-type washing machines) are also common but are usually more expensive. Lastly, there are coin laundry machines, which are often very large drum-type washing machines. Below is a description of each:
The most common personal washing machine found in Japanese homes. They tend to be cheaper but use more water. The controls are the most straightforward and might have fewer features compared to other washing machines.
Most machines do include a “spin-drying” cycle, which removes most of the excess water but does not completely dry the clothes, resulting in the clothes remaining damp after the cycle completes.
Some machines do have a complete drying function, usually “tumble drying”, but if they don’t, you would need to hand the clothes to air dry. It’s common for most Japanese homes to hang clothes outside to dry.
These washing machines are considered more modern, advanced, and energy-efficient. They use less water than top-loading machines and can handle more delicate clothes. They also often have built-in dryer functions, called 全自動洗濯乾燥 (zenjidou sentaku kansou), which means washer-dryer functions. These types of washing machines also tend to be more expensive than top-loading models.
Some models come with a separate dryer, but keep in mind, Japanese homes tend to be smaller, so having a separate washer and dryer might not be practical due to space concerns.
Coin laundries are common in urban areas and are usually conveniently located. You can often find one that is just a few hundred meters away from a hotel or your place of residence. They are usually significantly larger than home units and include separate washing and drying machines. People like to use them to wash large loads like futons or even small mattresses.
The specific features of coin laundry machines vary, but they often give customers options to wash with different temperatures and do delicate washes, and even options depending on what you are washing. Another convenient feature of coin laundries is that you don’t ever need to bring detergent.
Top-loading Models
Drum-type Models
Coin Laundry Machines
Cheap
More expensive
Pay per use (price varies)
Uses more water
Energy efficient and uses less water
Very large drum that can fit large loads like futons
Often includes “spin drying” features
Features such as delicate cycles and complete drying
Often includes options to vary water temperature and wash different items.
What do the Controls on Japanese Washing Machines Mean
Most washing machines have similar controls; some will have more features and therefore more buttons to select between the different options. But for now, let’s go over some of the most common controls and buttons that you will likely come across, based on the controls on the washing machine above.
Basic Buttons and Controls on Washing Machine in Japan
Starting with basic buttons, these include controls for turning on/off the washing machine, as well as starting/stopping a wash. These buttons are usually found on the very right.
Japanese
Romaji
English
電源
dengen
Power (on/off)
入
iri
On
切
kiri
Off
スタート / 一時停止
start / ichiji teishi
Start / Pause
Core Japanese Washing Machine Functions
These are the core Japanese washing machine functions; usually, each of these operations will be run automatically just by pressing スタート (sutaato) or the start button. But depending on your needs, for example, if your clothes still feel damp, you can press the 乾かす (kawakasu) button to just dry the clothes. The arrows at the very right allow you to customise things such as time or the amount of water. Here is a description of what each button does.
1. 洗 (Arai): Wash
The main washing/agitation cycle. The machine mixes water and detergent and scrubs the clothes. Use when you want to wash items normally or run a wash-only cycle.
2. すすぎ (Susugi): Rinse
This operation rinses detergent out of the clothes. Often repeats 1 – 3 times, depending on machine settings. Use if laundry still feels soapy or if you want to rinse hand-washed items.
3. 脱水 (Dassui): Spin or Spin Dry
This is a high-speed spin that removes water from clothes. Most washing machines, including top-loading models, have this function. Clothes come out damp but not dripping. You can use this option after hand-washing or if you need an extra spin to shorten drying time.
4. 乾かす (Kawakasu): Dry
This operation completely dries clothes, and clothes shouldn’t come out damp. The function uses warm or room-temperature air to dry clothes, depending on the model. It’s very useful if you don’t want to hang clothes outside and prefer to dry clothes more quickly.
Additional Core Buttons on Japanese Washing Machines
These are the buttons found above the core operation buttons. They basically are shortcuts to do necessary operations, such as setting a timer for the wash to start, cleaning the drum (recommended once a month), and washing delicate clothes.
Japanese
Romaji
English
What It Does / When to Use It
予約
Yoyaku
Timer
Let’s you set a delayed finish time. Useful for timing laundry to finish when you wake up or return home.
槽クリーン
Sou kuriin
Drum Clean
Cleans the washing drum, removing mold, odors, and detergent buildup. Best used monthly with a drum cleaner.
おしゃれ着
Osharegi
Delicate / Gentle Cycle
A gentle wash mode for delicate or hand-wash items like sweaters, lace, light fabrics, or knitwear. Prevents stretching and damage.
Washing Modes on Japanese Washing Machines
The washing modes, usually called コース (Course) in Japanese, are controls for specific washing options. You can choose between the options by pressing the コース button. They usually include options such as quick, delicate, or standard washes. Here are the options found on the drum washing machine above:
1. 毛布 (Moufu): Blanket Mode
This setting is specifically designed for washing large, thick items and uses more water and gentler agitation so the blanket doesn’t get damaged or tangled. Some examples include:
blankets
comforters
futon covers
2. 槽洗浄 (Sousenjou): Drum Cleaning
This function cleans the inside drum of the washing machine and usually takes a long time (1 – 3 hours). You can simply press the button alone to clean the machine, or you can also use specialised cleaning powder.
3. 時短 ( Jitan): Time-Saving / Quick Wash
A shorter, faster wash cycle, which is great when you’re in a rush, only have a small lightly used load, or staying in a hotel/Airbnb and need a quick wash.
4. 部屋干し (Heyaboshi): Indoor-Dry Mode
This mode is optimised for clothes that will be dried indoors rather than outside. It’s very useful in humid or rainy seasons, or in apartments without balconies. Below is what the function does:
spins clothes more thoroughly
reduces leftover moisture
helps prevent musty smells
5. 標準 (Hyoujun): Standard / Normal Wash
When in doubt, choose 標準 (hyoujun), or the standard wash option; it’s the safest all-purpose mode that can safely wash most clothes. As the default washing cycle, it is ideal for most everyday laundry, ranging from t-shirts, sweatshirts, jeans, towels, socks, and general clothing overall.
6. おうち流 (Ouchi ryuu): “Home-Style” Wash
This mode mimics gentler, hand-wash-like agitation, similar to how you would wash clothes at home in a basin. It’s typically used for the following:
delicate clothing
knitwear
items labelled “hand wash only”
Not all machines have this button; it’s also common for models such as 手洗い (tearai), which means hand wash or 柔らか (yawaraka), which means soft, for delicate clothes.
Japanese
Romaji
Meaning
毛布
moufu
Blanket
槽洗浄
sousenjou
Tub washing
時短
jitan
Time-saving (quick) wash
部屋干し
heya boshi
For clothes that’ll dry indoors
標準
hyoujun
Standard wash
おうち流
Ouchi ryuu
“Home-style” wash for delicate washes
For other models, you might come across these button labels:
Japanese
Romaji
Meaning
標準
hyoujun
Standard wash
お急ぎ
oisogi
Quick wash
つけおき
tsukeoki
Soak
ドライ / 手洗い
dorai / tearai
Delicate / hand-wash
毛布
moufu
Blanket mode
柔らか
yawaraka
Gentle cycle
洗乾
senkan
Wash + dry (for drum machines)
IIf you’re tired of relying on Google Translate for everyday tasks, it’s time to learn Japanese, even for practical, day-to-day life. Schools like Coto Academy focus on practical conversational Japanese, so everything you learn can be applied immediately.
They offer lessons on weekends and evenings, from part-time to intensive courses, giving you flexible options to learn Japanese according to your schedule and goals.
Found right next to the course selections, these functions are selected by pressing the 運転切替 (unten kirikae) button, which just means to “switch operations. These functions allow you to choose between different washing and drying cycles.
1. 除菌 (Jokkin): Sterilisation / Sanitisation
This function helps kill bacteria on clothing by using hot water, longer soaks, or special agitation, depending on the machine. It’s most useful for:
baby clothes
underwear
towels
sportswear
Items that tend to develop odor
2. 消臭 (Shoushuu): Deodorisation
A cycle designed to remove smells from clothing, often using strong rinsing or airflow rather than a full wash. This cycle is most ideal for the following:
smoky smells
food odors
sweat odors
clothes that sat damp too long
3. 洗濯 (Sentaku): Wash
The most basic function, this option indicates a wash-only cycle without any drying. You can use this function if you plan to air-dry or if you don’t want to heat-dry delicate items.
4. 乾燥 (Kansou): Dry
This is a cycle for completely drying your clothes, usually via tumble drying. This setting is not always included in every washing machine, such as cheaper top-loading ones. It’s a common function for many front-loading models. This option is great for those who don’t want to hang clothes, especially during the rainy or humid seasons.
Keep in mind that most machines can only handle drying small loads (usually around half the full capacity of loads for washing). This cycle usually takes 2 – 4 hours, depending on the machine.
5. 洗〜乾 (Sen ~ Kan): Washing to Drying Sequence
This is a full cycle from washing to drying (automatically). The symbol 〜 indicates the process is continuous. Generally, this sequence:
Uses less energy
Skips certain washing motions
Great for lightly soiled items
Japanese
Romaji
English Meaning
除菌
Jokin
Sterilize / Sanitize
消臭
Shoushuu
Deodorize
洗濯
Sentaku
Wash (Laundry)
洗濯乾燥
Sentaku Kansou
Wash + Dry
洗〜乾
Sen ~ Kan
Wash to Dry (full course)
Typical Washing Machine Routine in Japan
Using a washing machine is quite simple, with just a press of a couple of buttons, and the washing machine will automatically go through the full cycle. Outlined below are the basic steps to follow after loading in your clothes:
Turn on the Washing Machine
Usually, under the label 電源 (dengen), meaning power, you can press 入 (iri) to turn on the machine.
Add Detergent
Depending on the machine, there is a slot for you to pour in the detergent. Oftentimes, with top-loading models, you just pour in the detergent over the clothes.
(Can Usually Skip) Select Preferred Course
You can usually skip this step if you just want to do a standard wash. But if you need to do a more specific operation, you can press one of the top buttons, such as おしゃれ着 (osharegi) for delicates.
You can also press コース (koosu), or the course button, to select between the different operations mentioned earlier. To choose either the deodorisation or sanitisation functions, you can press the 運転切替 (unten kiri kae) button.
Press スタート (Start)
Just push the start button to start the wash. If you don’t customise the operations, it will automatically do a standard full cycle from washing to spin drying, and if the model has it, tumble or complete drying.
Check the Dampness or Wetness of clothes
Most models include cycles up to spin drying, which should leave clothes a bit damp so you can just hang them out to dry. If they are dripping wet, you select 脱水 (dassui), spin dry, to remove all the excess water.
If your washing machine is like the image above and includes 乾燥 (kawakasu), or drying cycle, you can completely dry your clothes without hanging them. Just know drying is only possible with smaller loads with most models.
Conclusion: Washing Machines in Japan are Simple & Easy-to-use
Washing machines in Japan can seem overwhelming at first, but all you have to do for a standard wash is turn it on, add detergent, and press start. That’s it! Pretty simple, right? And even doing more complicated washes just requires remembering a little more Japanese.
It would be helpful, however, to read the instruction manual as well, since it could discuss how to best use it, what could go wrong, or how to make the product last longer. So to gain confidence in reading and speaking Japanese, we highly recommend taking classes with a professional Japanese teacher who can adjust to your specific goals and needs.
Here at Coto Academy, we offer practical lessons tailored specifically for the Japanese you will encounter in the real world. We provide both full-time intensive and more flexible part-time courses, and our teachers work closely with you to help you reach your unique Japanese learning goals! Sign up today by filling out the form below:
FAQ
How do I use a washing machine in Japan?
Using a washing machine is pretty simple; for most models, you just need to turn it on (電源/入), add detergent, and press start (スタート).
How much does a washing machine in Japan cost?
Washing machine prices vary depending on size, brand, and features:
Small top-load (4–6 kg): ¥25,000 – ¥45,000
Mid-size top-load (7–8 kg): ¥40,000 – ¥70,000
Front-load drum washers: ¥80,000 – ¥200,000
Washer–dryer combos: ¥100,000 – ¥250,000+
Used or secondhand machines from shops like Hard Off or online apps like Mercari can cost as low as ¥10,000–¥20,00
How do I set up a washing machine in Japan?
Most Japanese apartments already come with a 専用防水パン (drain pan) and faucet hookup. Setup usually involves:
Attach the water hose: connect the inlet hose to the faucet using the provided adapter.
Connect the drain hose: place the hose securely into the drain opening inside the drain pan.
Level the machine: adjust the legs so it doesn’t shake during spin cycles.
Plug it in: most outlets are grounded for appliances.
If you’re unsure, appliance stores in Japan often offer delivery + installation for about ¥3,000–¥5,000.
How do I do a delicate wash in Japan?
Select the おしゃれ着 (おしゃれぎ) or the delicates course to wash clothes that need to be gently washed. For extra protection, pair it with a laundry net (ランドリーネット), which is sold in just about every 100 yen store in Japan.
How do I use a coin washing machine in Japan?
Coin washing machines are made to be simple and intuitive. You just have to load your laundry, insert coins, select your course (i.e. warm/cold water, delicate cycle), and press start to wash. You usually don’t need to bring detergent. Also note that dryers are separate and cheaper, usually costing ¥100 or ¥200 per 30 minutes or so.
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