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.
What does 'neko' mean?
A slightly more formal or written way to ask the meaning of a word.
What is the meaning of this word?
Similar to the first, but slightly more formal or explanatory. Often used in writing or presentations.
What does 'democracy' mean?
The speaker wants to tell someone what a word means.
The standard pattern for '~ means ...'. Replace 〜 with the word and … with the definition.
'Inu' means 'dog'.
A slightly more explanatory way to define a word, often used in dictionaries or formal explanations.
'Sakura' refers to flowers that bloom in spring.
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.
This word has a slightly rude nuance.
A more casual way to express the feeling or impression a word gives.
'Arigatou' feels polite.