Translation guide
The English term "ABC" can refer to the alphabet, basic fundamentals, or an acronym for American-born Chinese. This guide focuses on the most common meanings for learners.
Referring to the set of letters from A to Z, or the basics of reading and writing.
The standard Japanese word for the alphabet, especially the Roman alphabet.
英語のアルファベットは26文字です。
The English alphabet has 26 letters.
Often used as-is in Japanese, especially in contexts like 'ABC song' or 'learning one's ABCs'.
子供たちはABCの歌を歌っています。
The children are singing the ABC song.
Referring to the elementary or most basic aspects of a subject.
Means 'basics' or 'fundamentals'. Commonly used in phrases like 'the ABCs of X'.
まずは料理の基本を学びましょう。
First, let's learn the ABCs of cooking.
Means 'rudiments' or 'elements'. Slightly more formal, often used in educational contexts.
彼は経済学の初歩を教えている。
He teaches the ABCs of economics.
Literally refers to the traditional Japanese ordering of kana, used metaphorically to mean 'the basics'. Somewhat old-fashioned.
Referring to a person of Chinese descent born in the United States.
In Japanese, the term 'ABC' as an acronym for American-born Chinese is not widely recognized. It's best to use the English acronym with an explanation, or describe the person's background.
彼はABC（アメリカ生まれの中国系）です。
He is an ABC (American-born Chinese).
彼女はアメリカで生まれた中国系アメリカ人です。
She is a Chinese-American born in the U.S.
While 'ABC' can be used in Japanese for the alphabet, it is not used to mean 'basics'. Use 基本 or 初歩 instead.
コンピューターの基本を学ぶ
learn the ABCs of computers
He doesn't even know the ABCs of business yet.