Navigating the world of Japanese language can be both an exciting and daunting task, especially when it comes to the ever-evolving slang and trendy terms used by millennials. Just like in any language, slang in Japanese provides a window into contemporary culture, reflecting societal changes, technological advancements, and the unique characteristics of the younger generation. To help you stay up-to-date and blend in seamlessly with native speakers, here are the top 10 Japanese millennial terms you need to know.
1. リア充 (Riajuu)
The term “リア充” (Riajuu) is a combination of “リアル” (riaru), which means “real,” and “充実” (juujitsu), which means “fulfillment” or “contentment.” This term is often used to describe someone who appears to have a fulfilling and happy real life, as opposed to spending all their time online. If you see someone who has a great social life, successful career, and everything seemingly going well for them, you might refer to them as a “リア充.”
Usage Example:
“彼は毎日友達と遊んでいて、リア充だね。”
(“Kare wa mainichi tomodachi to asondeite, riajuu da ne.”)
“He hangs out with friends every day; he’s definitely a riajuu.”
2. インスタ映え (Insta-bae)
“インスタ映え” (Insta-bae) is a term derived from “Instagram” and “映え” (bae), which means “to shine” or “to look attractive.” This term is used to describe something that looks good in photos posted on Instagram. It has become a crucial part of the social media culture among Japanese millennials who are always on the lookout for picture-perfect moments to share.
Usage Example:
“このカフェはインスタ映えスポットだよ！”
(“Kono kafe wa insta-bae supotto da yo!”)
“This café is an Instagram-worthy spot!”
3. 草 (Kusa)
In internet slang, “草” (kusa), which literally means “grass,” is used to represent laughter. It originates from the kanji character “笑” (wara), which means “laugh.” Over time, people started using “w” to represent laughter (similar to “lol” in English), and multiple “w”s look like grass, hence “kusa.”
Usage Example:
“彼のジョークが面白すぎて草！”
(“Kare no jooku ga omoshirosugite kusa!”)
“His joke was so funny, LOL!”
4. バズる (Bazuru)
“バズる” (bazuru) comes from the English word “buzz” and is used to describe something that goes viral. Whether it’s a video, a tweet, or a meme, if it gains rapid popularity and widespread attention, it’s said to “buzz.”
Usage Example:
“その動画は一晩でバズった。”
(“Sono douga wa hitoban de bazutta.”)
“That video went viral overnight.”
5. エモい (Emoi)
“エモい” (emoi) is derived from the English word “emotional” and is used to describe something that evokes deep emotions or nostalgia. It’s a versatile term that can be used in various contexts, whether you’re talking about a touching movie, a beautiful sunset, or a song that brings back memories.
Usage Example:
“この曲、すごくエモいね。”
(“Kono kyoku, sugoku emoi ne.”)
“This song is so emotional.”
6. ガチ (Gachi)
“ガチ” (gachi) is a slang term derived from “ガチンコ” (gachinko), which means “serious” or “real.” It’s often used to emphasize the seriousness or authenticity of something. If you want to stress that you’re not joking or that something is genuinely true, you can use “ガチ.”
Usage Example:
“ガチでやばい！”
(“Gachi de yabai!”)
“This is seriously bad!”
7. キモい (Kimoi)
“キモい” (kimoi) is a contraction of “気持ち悪い” (kimochi warui), which means “gross” or “disgusting.” It’s a casual way to express that something or someone is creepy or unpleasant. This term is widely used among younger people and can be applied to various situations.
Usage Example:
“あの虫、キモい！”
(“Ano mushi, kimoi!”)
“That bug is gross!”
8. 神 (Kami)
“神” (kami) means “god” in Japanese, but in modern slang, it’s used to describe something that is incredibly good or impressive, almost like saying “divine” in English. If something is top-notch or extraordinary, it can be referred to as “神.”
Usage Example:
“この映画、神すぎる！”
(“Kono eiga, kami sugiru!”)
“This movie is so amazing!”
9. オワコン (Owacon)
“オワコン” (owacon) is short for “終わったコンテンツ” (owatta kontentsu), which means “finished content.” It’s used to describe something that was once popular but is no longer in vogue. Whether it’s a fad, a TV show, or a celebrity, if it’s no longer relevant, it’s “オワコン.”
Usage Example:
“そのゲームはもうオワコンだよ。”
(“Sono geemu wa mou owacon da yo.”)
“That game is already out of fashion.”
10. それな (Sorena)
“それな” (sorena) is a slang term used to show strong agreement with what someone has said. It’s similar to saying “I know, right?” or “Exactly!” in English. This term is commonly used in casual conversations among friends.
Usage Example:
“A: 今日めっちゃ暑いね。 B: それな！”
(“A: Kyou meccha atsui ne. B: Sorena!”)
“A: It’s so hot today. B: I know, right!”
How to Incorporate These Terms into Your Vocabulary
Understanding these terms is one thing, but incorporating them into your daily conversations is another. Here are some tips to help you seamlessly integrate these millennial terms into your Japanese vocabulary:
1. Listen and Observe
Pay attention to how native speakers use these terms in conversations, social media, and entertainment. Watching Japanese dramas, variety shows, and YouTube channels can provide you with a natural context for these slang terms.
2. Practice with Native Speakers
Engage in conversations with native Japanese speakers, either in person or through language exchange apps. Don’t be afraid to use these terms; native speakers will appreciate your effort to speak naturally.
3. Use Social Media
Follow Japanese influencers, celebrities, and brands on social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok. Observe how these terms are used in captions, comments, and hashtags.
4. Keep Up with Trends
Japanese slang evolves quickly, so staying updated with the latest trends is essential. Follow Japanese pop culture blogs, news sites, and forums to keep your vocabulary current.
Final Thoughts
Learning millennial slang is more than just understanding words; it’s about connecting with a culture and its people. By incorporating these top 10 Japanese millennial terms into your vocabulary, you’ll not only enhance your language skills but also gain a deeper appreciation for contemporary Japanese society.
Remember, language is a living entity, constantly evolving and adapting to the times. Embrace the changes and enjoy the journey of learning Japanese in all its dynamic and vibrant forms. Whether you’re chatting with friends, browsing social media, or watching the latest trends, these terms will help you sound more like a native speaker and enrich your overall language experience.
