Are you interested in learning how to say “design” in Japanese? Whether you are a designer yourself or simply fascinated by the world of design, knowing the appropriate Japanese words can come in handy. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways to express “design” in Japanese. We will also touch upon regional variations when necessary. Let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Design” in Japanese
When it comes to formal situations or professional settings, it is important to use appropriate and polite language in Japanese. Here are some formal expressions for the word “design”:
1. デザイン (dezain)
The word “design” is often borrowed from English and written in katakana as デザイン (dezain). This term is widely used and recognized, especially in professional contexts related to design.
2. 設計 (sekkei)
Another formal word for “design” is 設計 (sekkei). It specifically refers to the process of planning and creating designs, commonly used in fields such as architecture or engineering.
Informal Ways to Say “Design” in Japanese
Informal language is often used among friends, family, or in casual conversations. Here are some informal expressions you can use when talking about “design” in Japanese:
1. デザイン (dezain)
Just like in formal situations, the word デザイン (dezain) can be used informally as well. It is commonly understood by Japanese speakers, making it suitable for relaxed conversations.
2. デザ (deza)
If you want a more casual way to refer to “design,” you can simply shorten デザイン (dezain) to デザ (deza). This abbreviation is often used in friendly and informal contexts.
Regional Variations
Language can vary across different regions, and Japan is no exception. While the formal and informal expressions mentioned earlier are widely understood throughout the country, there are some regional differences worth noting:
Kansai Dialect
In the Kansai region, which includes cities like Osaka and Kyoto, people have their own unique dialect. Here are the regional variations for “design” in Kansai:
1. めちゃ綺麗 (mehcha kirei)
This phrase is commonly used in Kansai dialect to mean “design.” It can be translated as “very beautiful” or “extremely attractive design.” The phrase reflects the local emphasis on aesthetics.
Tokyo Dialect (Standard Japanese)
The Tokyo dialect, also known as Standard Japanese, is widely spoken throughout Japan and serves as the standard for broadcasting and formal situations. Here is the regional variation in Tokyo:
1. デザイン (dezain)
Just like in the rest of Japan, the term デザイン (dezain) is commonly used in Tokyo as well. It aligns with the national standard and is understood by everyone in the country, regardless of their regional background.
Examples and Usage
Now that you know the different ways to say “design” in Japanese, let’s explore some examples and how to use these words in various contexts:
- Formal Example: 私はデザインに興味があります。(Watashi wa dezain ni kyōmi ga arimasu.) – “I am interested in design.”
- Informal Example: この服のデザインすごくカッコいい！(Kono fuku no dezain sugoku kakkoii!) – “The design of this outfit is really cool!”
- Kansai Example: あの建物のめちゃ綺麗なデザインに感動したよ。(Ano tatemono no mehcha kirei na dezain ni kandō shita yo.) – “I was impressed by the incredibly beautiful design of that building.”
Remember, context is important when using specific words or phrases. Tailor your language choice based on the formality of the situation and the relationship with the person you’re speaking to.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to say “design” in Japanese opens up a world of possibilities for expressing your passion or discussing design-related topics in conversations with Japanese speakers. By familiarizing yourself with the appropriate formal and informal expressions, along with regional variations, you can confidently engage in discussions about design in Japan.
Now that you have a solid understanding of the various ways to say “design” in Japanese, go ahead and try using these words in your conversations. Practice makes perfect, and you’ll soon find yourself incorporating these terms seamlessly into your language repertoire. Enjoy exploring the world of Japanese design and its rich culture!
