他
[ho̞ka̠]
In Japanese, "other" is expressed as 他.
The word 他 can function as a noun or a prefix in compound words. In casual spoken Japanese, it is most frequently used in its adverbial form 他に to mean "besides" or "in addition to".
Which one should you use?
In English, "other" often functions as an adjective (such as in "other people"). In Japanese, the word 他 is often used with the particle に to function as "besides" or "in addition to" within a sentence.
Did you know?
- Japanese uses 他 in the word 他意 tai, meaning 'ulterior motive'. In this context, 'other' does not mean 'different' but refers to a hidden meaning beneath the surface.
- When talking about 'others' in a social sense, Japanese speakers often avoid 他 and instead use 他人 tanin. While it literally means 'other person', it is often used to describe a complete stranger with whom one has no social bond.
- If you use 他 to refer to people in a very formal setting, you might accidentally sound like you are distancing yourself from them too much, as the word can feel somewhat impersonal.
Examples in context
- 他に質問はある？Do you have any other questions?This sentence shows how to use 他 when asking about questions.Tatoeba #2750248 by tommy_san, translation #274612 by CK
- 他に方法はない。There is no other way.This sentence demonstrates the use of 他 regarding a way or method.Tatoeba #8875581 by small_snow, translation #1815744 by Spamster
- 他にも本、持ってる？Do you have any other books?This sentence shows how to use 他 when asking about books.Tatoeba #9576717 by small_snow, translation #2784312 by sharptoothed
- 別の方法を試してみましょう。Let's try another method.
- 異なる視点から別の解釈を考えましょう。Let's consider another interpretation from a different perspective.
- 他の店でも同じ商品が買えます。You can buy the same product at other stores too.
- ここには他の選択肢がありません。There are no other options here.
- 161 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Misaki and Yota are choosing a movie to watch.
- 美咲 Misakiこの映画はもう見たよ。Kono eiga wa mō mita yo.I've already seen this movie.
- 陽太 Yotaじゃあ、他にいい案がある？Jā, hoka ni ii an ga aru?Then, do you have any other good ideas?
- 美咲 Misakiあっちの作品はどうかな？Acchi no sakuhin wa dō kana?How about that work over there?
- 陽太 Yotaいいと思う。それにしよう！Ii to omou. Sore ni shiyō!I think that's good. Let's go with that!
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry 他, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
