オリキャラ
orikyara
In Japanese, オリキャラ (orikyara) is the term used for "OC" (original character).
The term is used to distinguish a character created by an artist or writer from existing characters belonging to established media, such as anime or games.
What does it mean word for word?
オリキャラ is a contraction of オリジナル (original) and キャラクター (character).
Which one should you use?
オリキャラ is an informal abbreviation, whereas 二次創作キャラクター refers more broadly to fan-made characters or characters created through derivative works. Additionally, 自作キャラ can be used to mean a "self-made character."
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
オリキャラ is an informal, slangy abbreviation used primarily in internet subcultures, fan art communities and creative circles. For a more formal way to describe fan-made characters or characters from derivative works, use 二次創作キャラクター.
How do you pronounce it?
orikyara
Did you know?
- In Japanese art communities, you might encounter the term うちの子, which literally means 'my child', to refer affectionately to one's own 'OC'.
- The term オリキャラ is a product of 'wasei eigo', or Japanese-made English, where 'original' and 'character' are combined into a unique slang contraction.
- In Japanese creative circles, creators may use the verb オリキャラ化する to describe the specific act of transforming a vague idea or concept into a concrete 'OC'.
Examples in context
- 私は二次創作キャラクターを作りました。I created a fan-made character.
- 僕のオリキャラは魔法使いだ。My OC is a wizard.
- このオリキャラ、すごく可愛い。Kono orikyara, sugoku kawaii.This OC is really cute.
- 私のオリキャラを描いてみた。Watashi no orikyara o kaite mita.I tried drawing my OC.
- 新しいオリキャラの設定を決める。Atarashii orikyara no settei o kimeru.I'm deciding the settings for a new OC.
Example conversation
Two friends are talking about art on their phones.
- 美咲 Misaki蓮くん、このオリキャラのデザイン、どう思う？Ren-kun, kono orikyara no dezain, dou omou?Ren, what do you think of this OC's design?
- 蓮 Renすごくかっこいいオリキャラだね。Sugoku kakkoii orikyara dane.It's a really cool OC.
- 美咲 Misakiありがとう！もっと描いてみるね。Arigatou! Motto kaite miru ne.Thanks! I'll try drawing more.
- 蓮 Ren美咲の絵、いつも楽しみだよ。Misaki no e, itsumo tanoshimi dayo.I always look forward to your drawings, Misaki.
