Some people collect stamps, some collect mugs. But if you’re here, chances are you (or your friend) collect stationery – pens, notebooks, stickers, the works – as if it were a defining trait. And honestly, for many Japanese learners, it is! The right notebook or pen can make study time feel less like homework and … Read more
Water is one of the most essential elements of life – and it shows up in many parts of the Japanese language too! The everyday word for water in Japanese is mizu (水). But did you know there are separate words for hot and cold water in Japanese? There are also several interesting kanji compounds … Read more
Fire is a force of nature in every culture, and Japan is no exception! The main word for fire in Japanese is hi (火 / ひ). You will also come across the word kaji (火事 / かじ), which is used for a destructive blaze such as a house fire. In Japanese, there are several words … Read more
Conversing about the weather is essential when it comes to making small-talk in Japan! Whether it be by the water cooler in the workplace, or a one-liner at the beginning of an email, some form of acknowledgment of the current weather is a great way to break the ice and get a conversation flowing. Below … Read more
There are so many pleasant ways to describe a woman’s beauty: pretty, cute, gorgeous, the list goes on! For a more masculine beauty, we can always use neutral terms such as ‘good-looking’ or ‘attractive’, and even ‘cute’ – but ‘handsome’ gives off a certain air of charm and manliness that a guy might like to … Read more
Japan is known for its beautiful culture, deep traditions, and unique way of looking at the world. Some of the most powerful ideas are captured in simple Japanese words. These words don’t always have a direct translation in English, but they embody a whole philosophy. From finding beauty in imperfection to discovering strength in tough … Read more
There’s something special about the Japanese language. Many Japanese words express feelings or ideas that don’t exist in English. These words are often simple, but carry deep meaning rooted in Japanese culture and everyday life. Other words simply sound beautiful, and are fun to say! Here are 15 beautiful Japanese words that will show you … Read more
Whether you are learning Japanese for use in everyday life or just for fun, body parts are a practical set of vocabulary to have under your belt! Not only will it improve your speaking and comprehension skills in day-to-day conversations, it would also be extremely helpful if you find yourself in an emergency situation such … Read more