ジェットコースター
jetto kōsutā
The Japanese term for roller coaster is ジェットコースター (jetto kōsutā).
In Japanese, ジェットコースター is used to refer to the amusement park ride characterized by high, fast tracks with steep drops and sharp turns. While English speakers use the term 'roller coaster', Japanese speakers almost exclusively use this shortened loanword.
What does it mean word for word?
The term is a loanword from English, combining 'jet' and 'coaster' to form ジェットコースター.
How do you pronounce it?
jetto kōsutā
Did you know?
- The term ジェットコースター is an example of 'wasei eigo', which are English-like words coined in Japan that often do not exist or are not used in English-speaking countries.
- The 'jet' part of ジェットコースター has nothing to do with actual jet propulsion or engines, but was likely used to imply speed and modern excitement.
- If you ask an English speaker for a 'jet coaster', they might think you are describing a high-speed plane or a specialized drinking vessel rather than an amusement park ride.
Examples in context
- ローラーコースターは大好き！また乗りたいな。I love roller coasters! I want to ride them again.
- ジェットコースターは本当にスリルがありますね。Jetto kōsutā wa hontō ni suriru ga arimasu ne.Roller coasters are really thrilling, aren't they?
- あのジェットコースターに乗ってみたいです。Ano jetto kōsutā ni notte mitai desu.I want to try riding that roller coaster.
- ジェットコースターの列はとても長いです。Jetto kōsutā no retsu wa totemo nagai desu.The line for the roller coaster is very long.
Example conversation
Two friends are deciding what to do at an amusement park.
- 結衣 Yui健太君、ジェットコースターに乗る？Kenta-kun, jetto kōsutā ni noru?Kenta, do you want to ride the roller coaster?
- 健太 Kentaうん、結衣ちゃん、あれに乗ろう！Un, Yui-chan, are ni norō!Yeah, Yui, let's ride that one!
- 結衣 Yuiちょっと怖いけど、楽しみだね。Chotto kowai kedo, tanoshimi dane.It's a little scary, but I'm looking forward to it.
- 健太 Kenta大丈夫、きっと楽しいよ。Daijōbu, kitto tanoshii yo.It's okay, it will definitely be fun.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries ジェットコースター, CC BY-SA 4.0.
