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.
The standard Japanese word for the alphabet, especially the Roman alphabet.
The English alphabet has 26 letters.
Often used as-is in Japanese, especially in contexts like 'ABC song' or 'learning one's ABCs'.
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'.
First, let's learn the ABCs of cooking.
Means 'rudiments' or 'elements'. Slightly more formal, often used in educational contexts.
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.
He is an ABC (American-born Chinese).
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.
learn the ABCs of computers
He teaches the ABCs of economics.
彼はまだ商売のイロハも知らない。
He doesn't even know the ABCs of business yet.