キラです
kira desu
The English phrase "I am kira" is translated into Japanese as キラです (kira desu).
This phrase is used to identify yourself as a person named Kira. In Japanese, the subject "I" is often omitted because it is understood from the context of the conversation.
What does it mean word for word?
The part desu functions as a copula, meaning "is", "am" or "are".
Which one should you use?
Other variations exist depending on the level of politeness and gendered tone. For example, Watashi wa Kira desu is a common formal construction, while Watashi wa Kira to moushimasu provides an even higher level of formality.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
For more formal situations, you can use Watashi wa Kira to moushimasu. In informal settings, you might use Ore wa Kira da or Boku wa Kira. Use Ore if you want to sound more masculine and assertive.
How does it change in a sentence?
In the phrase キラです, the subject "I" is omitted because it is understood from context. If you choose to include the subject, the neutral term for "I" used by both men and women is Watashi.
How do you pronounce it?
kira desu
Did you know?
- The name Kira is not a traditional Japanese name. In the series Death Note, it is derived from the English word 'killer' to signify the character's role.
- The phrase キラです is often used in Japanese pop culture to denote a certain level of brightness or sparkle. The sound 'Kira' is an onomatopoeia for 'glittering' or 'shining', meaning your name could unintentionally sound like you are describing a sparkling object.
- If you introduce yourself using Ore wa Kira da, you might sound unexpectedly aggressive or like a character in an action movie. This specific pronoun for 'I' is so masculine and rough that it is rarely used in polite, real-world social introductions.
Examples in context
- キラです。Kira desu.I am Kira.
- はじめまして、キラです。Hajimemashite, Kira desu.Nice to meet you, I am Kira.
- あ、キラです。A, Kira desu.Oh, I am Kira.
Example conversation
Two students are introducing themselves on the first day of class.
- 大翔 Hiroto君の名前は何かな？Kimi no namae wa nan kana?What is your name?
- 陽葵 Himariキラです。よろしくお願いします。Kira desu. Yoroshiku onegaishimasu.I am Kira. Pleased to meet you.
- 大翔 Hiroto僕は大翔です。よろしくね。Boku wa Yamato desu. Yoroshiku ne.I am Yamato. Nice to meet you.
- 陽葵 Himari大翔さん、よろしくお願いします。Yamato-san, yoroshiku onegaishimasu.Yamato, pleased to meet you.
