Translation guide
In Japanese, expressing nationality is straightforward but differs from English in structure. The most common pattern uses 〜人 (jin) attached to a country name, meaning 'person of that country'. There are also noun forms for 'nationality' itself, and ways to ask about or state citizenship.
To say 'I am [nationality]' or 'He is [nationality]'.
The most common and natural way to state nationality. Simply add 人 (じん) to the country name. Note: some country readings change slightly (e.g., アメリカ → アメリカ人).
I am Japanese.
He is American.
Is she Chinese?
Literally 'I am from [country]'. This emphasizes origin rather than legal nationality. Often used when living abroad or when nationality is complex.
I am from Brazil.
Formal way to say 'I hold [country] nationality'. Used in official contexts or when discussing dual citizenship.
I hold Japanese nationality.
To ask 'What is your nationality?' or 'Where are you from?'
Polite and common way to ask 'Which country are you from?'. Literally 'Your country is where?'. The honorific お makes it polite.
Which country are you from?
Directly asks 'What is your nationality?'. More formal and direct; can be used in official settings.
What is your nationality?
Polite way to ask 'Which country are you from?' using 方 (かた) as a respectful term for person.
To talk about 'nationality' as a concept, e.g., 'What is your nationality?' or 'Nationality is important.'
The standard word for 'nationality' as a legal status. Used in formal contexts and documents.
To acquire nationality.
Refers to 'ethnicity' or 'people' rather than legal nationality. Use when discussing ethnic groups.
Means 'citizen' or 'national' (the people of a nation). Not used for individual nationality statements.
To describe something as being of a certain nationality, like 'American culture' or 'French wine'.
The standard way to form an adjective from a country name. Simply add の after the country name.
Japanese culture
Italian wine
Used when emphasizing the people rather than the country itself, e.g., 'American way of thinking'.
American way of thinking
While 国籍は何ですか is grammatically correct, it can sound too direct or formal in casual conversation. Use お国はどちらですか for a more natural, polite inquiry.
Where are you from? (natural)
出身 (しゅっしん) emphasizes where you were born or raised, 人 (じん) is the everyday way to state nationality, and 国籍 (こくせき) is the formal legal term. Use 人 for most situations.
I am from Japan, but my nationality is American.
I have dual nationality.
He is French.
Which country are you from?
Dual nationality is not permitted.
少数民族の権利。
Rights of ethnic minorities.
日本国民の義務。
Duties of Japanese citizens.