Translation guide
The English word 'nan' is not a standard word. It may be a typo for 'man', 'can', 'fan', 'pan', 'tan', 'ban', 'van', 'nan' (as in grandmother), or 'NaN' (Not a Number). This guide covers the most likely intended meanings for an English-speaking learner of Japanese.
To refer to one's grandmother in an informal, affectionate way, similar to 'nan' or 'nana' in English.
The most common and affectionate way to say 'grandma' in Japanese. Used by children and adults within the family.
おばあちゃん、これ食べていい？
Grandma, can I eat this?
A more casual, shortened form of おばあちゃん. Often used by older children or in very informal settings.
ばあちゃんちに行く。
I'm going to grandma's house.
Formal term for 'grandmother'. Used in formal speech or writing, or when referring to someone else's grandmother politely.
祖母は今年で80歳になります。
My grandmother will be 80 years old this year.
To express the computing concept of 'Not a Number', often encountered in programming or data contexts.
In technical contexts, the English acronym 'NaN' is used as-is, often pronounced as ナン. It is understood by programmers and data scientists.
この変数はNaNです。
This variable is NaN.
The literal translation 'non-number', but rarely used. 'NaN' is overwhelmingly more common.
非数値データを処理する。
Process non-numeric data.
To refer to the Indian bread 'naan', often eaten with curry.
The standard Japanese word for naan bread. Widely understood and used in restaurants.
カレーにナンを頼みます。
I'll order naan with my curry.
'Nan' is not a standard English word with a single clear meaning. If you meant a different word, check the spelling. Common similar words: man, can, fan, pan, tan, ban, van.