Drawing is a beautiful form of self-expression that transcends language barriers. Whether you are an aspiring manga artist or a hobbyist doodler, being able to express yourself in Japanese can add an extra layer of depth to your artwork. In this guide, we will explore various ways to say “I am drawing” in Japanese, including formal and informal expressions. So let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “I Am Drawing”
When speaking in formal settings or with people you are not familiar with, it is important to showcase politeness and respect. Here are some formal ways to say “I am drawing” in Japanese:
1. 絵を描いています。
(e wo kaiteimasu)
This is the most straightforward and widely used expression to say “I am drawing.” The verb 描く (kaku) means “to draw,” and います (imasu) is the polite form of the verb いる (iru), which means “to be.” By adding 絵 (e) before 描いています (kaiteimasu), you specifically indicate that you are drawing a picture.
2. 絵を描いております。
(e wo kaiteorimasu)
This expression is even more polite and formal than the previous one. By using the honorific おります (orimasu) instead of います (imasu), you show a higher level of respect towards the person you are speaking to. It is commonly used in formal contexts, such as business or official settings.
Informal Ways to Say “I Am Drawing”
In casual situations, such as talking to friends or family, you can use less formal expressions. Here are some informal ways to say “I am drawing” in Japanese:
1. 絵を描いてるよ。
(e wo kaiteru yo)
This is a friendly and colloquial way to express that you are drawing. The verb 描いてる (kaiteru) is the casual form of 描いています (kaiteimasu). Adding よ (yo) at the end adds emphasis and creates a casual tone. This expression is commonly used among friends or when speaking to someone of a similar age or status.
2. 絵を描いているんだ。
(e wo kaiteiru nda)
This is another informal expression, often used to provide an explanation or emphasize the fact that you are drawing. The んだ (nda) at the end is a colloquial contraction of のだ (no da), which adds a sense of emphasis or assertion. It is commonly used among friends or in casual conversations.
Regional Variations
While Japanese is primarily a uniform language, there can be minor regional variations in certain areas. However, when it comes to expressing “I am drawing,” there are no significant regional differences. The expressions mentioned earlier are universally understood and used throughout Japan.
Tips and Examples
Tips:
- When using any of these expressions, be aware of your audience and the level of politeness required.
- Listen to native speakers, watch anime or Japanese movies, and practice these expressions in context to improve your language skills.
- To sound more natural, incorporate gestures or show your artwork while stating these phrases.
Examples:
A: あなた、何してるの？
(Anata, nani shiteru no?)
B: 絵を描いています。
(E wo kaiteimasu.)
A: うわー、すごい！見せて！
(Uwaa, sugoi! Misete!)
B: どうぞ。
(Douzo.)A: What are you up to?
B: I am drawing.
A: Wow, that’s amazing! Show me!
B: Sure, here you go.
Remember, the key to becoming fluent in any language is practice. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, as they provide valuable learning opportunities. So keep drawing, expressing yourself, and enjoying the journey of learning Japanese!
