Translation guide
How to ask about or discuss the meaning of a word in Japanese.
The speaker wants to know the definition or meaning of a specific word.
A common, natural way to ask 'What does ~ mean?'. Use after the word you're asking about.
「猫」ってどういう意味ですか。
What does 'neko' mean?
A slightly more formal or written way to ask the meaning of a word.
The speaker wants to tell someone what a word means.
The standard pattern for '~ means ...'. Replace 〜 with the word and … with the definition.
「犬」は「dog」という意味です。
'Inu' means 'dog'.
The speaker wants to talk about the subtle meaning or feeling of a word beyond its dictionary definition.
Used to explain the nuance or connotation of a word.
この言葉には少し失礼なニュアンスがあります。
This word has a slightly rude nuance.
この言葉の意味は何ですか。
What is the meaning of this word?
Similar to the first, but slightly more formal or explanatory. Often used in writing or presentations.
「民主主義」とはどういう意味ですか。
What does 'democracy' mean?
A slightly more explanatory way to define a word, often used in dictionaries or formal explanations.
「桜」とは春に咲く花のことです。
'Sakura' refers to flowers that bloom in spring.
A more casual way to express the feeling or impression a word gives.
「ありがとう」は丁寧な感じがします。
'Arigatou' feels polite.