Are you looking to learn how to say “card” in Japanese? Whether you need to know the formal or informal ways, we’ve got you covered. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide you with various tips, examples, and regional variations if necessary. So, let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways
If you want to communicate formally, here are a few ways to say “card” in Japanese:
1. カード (ka-do)
This is the most common and general term for “card” in Japanese. It can be used in various contexts such as credit cards, ID cards, or playing cards. For instance, if you want to ask someone for their business card, you can say:
Could you give me your business card, please?
ビジネスカードをください。
(Bijinesu ka-do o kudasai.)
2. トランプ (toranpu)
This term specifically refers to playing cards or trump cards in Japanese. It is derived from the English word “trump.” If you want to ask someone to play cards with you, you can say:
Do you want to play cards?
カードをしませんか？
(Ka-do o shimasen ka?)
3. 手札 (tefuda)
When playing certain card games, specifically those requiring a hand of cards like poker or bridge, you can use this term to refer to “hand” or “cards in hand.” For example:
I have a good hand of cards.
手札が良いです。
(Tefuda ga ii desu.)
Informal Ways
If you’re looking for more casual or informal ways of saying “card,” here are a few options:
1. カード (ka-do)
Yes, you read it right. The term “カード (ka-do)” can be used both formally and informally. For example:
Can you lend me your credit card?
クレジットカードを貸してくれる？
(Kurejitto ka-do o kashite kureru?)
2. カード (kado)
Some Japanese people may shorten the term “カード (ka-do)” to just “カード (kado)” in informal conversations. Here’s an example:
Do you have any discount cards?
割引カード持ってる？
(Waribiki ka-do motteru?)
3. カッター (katta-)
In certain contexts like trading card games, it’s common to hear the term “カッター (katta-)” to refer to cards. This usage is more specific to the hobbyist community. For example:
I just bought some new cards for my collection.
新しいカッターを集めるために買ったよ。
(Atarashii katta- o atsumeru tame ni katta yo.)
Regional Variations
While Japanese is the national language of Japan, there are minor regional variations in vocabulary. However, for the term “card,” the differences are negligible. The formal and informal ways mentioned earlier are widely understood and used across regions in Japan.
Tips for Memorization
Learning new vocabulary can be challenging, so here are some valuable tips to help you memorize the word “card” in Japanese:
1. Practice with Flashcards
Create flashcards with the Japanese term on one side and the English translation on the other. Review them regularly to reinforce your memory.
2. Use the Term in Context
Try to incorporate the word “card” into daily conversations or use it while studying Japanese card games. The more you use the term, the better it sticks in your memory.
Conclusion
By now, you should be familiar with various ways to say “card” in Japanese, both formally and informally. Remember the general term “カード (ka-do)” for most situations and the specific terms for playing cards (“トランプ” – toranpu) or cards in a hand (“手札” – tefuda). Additionally, you can use shortened forms like “カード (kado)” or “カッター (katta-)” in informal settings. Don’t forget to practice and reinforce your learning with flashcards and practical application. Enjoy expanding your Japanese vocabulary and have fun exploring the many card games Japan has to offer!
