Greetings! If you’re looking to learn how to say “Stone, Paper, Scissors” in Japanese, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re heading to Japan or simply interested in Japanese culture, this guide will help you master this popular game known as “janken” in Japanese. We’ll cover both formal and informal ways, share regional variations if necessary, and provide plenty of tips and examples. So, let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Formal Way: Jankenpon
In formal settings, the most common way to say “Stone, Paper, Scissors” in Japanese is “Jankenpon.” This term is widely recognized across the country and is used in schools, offices, and formal occasions. It’s used by people of all ages, making it the go-to choice in formal settings.
If you want to propose a game of “Rock, Paper, Scissors” formally, simply say:
Jankenpon o shiyōmasen ka?
(Shall we play Rock, Paper, Scissors?)
You can replace “shiyōmasen ka” with “しませんか” (“shimasen ka”), which is a polite way to suggest playing a game. This question is a polite way to initiate a game, be it with friends, colleagues, or strangers, while following formal Japanese etiquette.
Here are the individual terms used in “Jankenpon” when referring to each hand shape:
- Rock: “Guu” or “Guu-pon”
- Paper: “Paa” or “Paa-pon”
- Scissors: “Choki” or “Choki-pon”
Now that you know the formal way, let’s move on to the informal variations.
Informal Ways: Saisho wa Guu
Japanese language is often contextual, and informal ways of saying “Rock, Paper, Scissors” can vary depending on the situation and region. In informal settings, people tend to simplify the phrase and simply count as they play the game.
The most common and informal way to say “Rock, Paper, Scissors” is:
Saisho wa Guu, jankenpon!
(Rock is the first, Rock, Paper, Scissors!)
Here, “Saisho wa Guu” means “Rock is the first” and is usually said while showing your fist to represent “Rock.” Then, after the phrase, “jankenpon” is exclaimed to initiate the game. The counting element simplifies the phrase and adds a playful touch to the game.
Let’s break down the individual terms used in the informal variation:
- Rock: “Guu” or “Guu-pon”
- Paper: “Paa” or “Paa-pon”
- Scissors: “Choki” or “Choki-pon”
Remember, these informal variations are commonly used among friends, family, and in casual settings.
Tips and Regional Variations
While “Jankenpon” and “Saisho wa Guu” are the most widespread ways to say “Rock, Paper, Scissors” in Japan, there are a couple of regional variations that may be interesting to know:
- Ki, Ka, Ku: A regional variation in the Hokuriku region replaces the classic hand shapes with “Ki” for Rock, “Ka” for Paper, and “Ku” for Scissors. So, players will say “Ki, Ka, Ku, Jankenpon!” to initiate the game.
- Jan, Ken, Pon: In Okinawa, the regional variation is simply replacing “Jankenpon” with “Jan, Ken, Pon.” This variation keeps the counting element alive in a different order.
It’s important to note that while these regional variations may exist, they are less commonly known throughout Japan. However, they add a fun twist to the game when encountered in the respective regions.
In conclusion, whether you’re playing “Rock, Paper, Scissors” formally or informally in Japan, “Jankenpon” and “Saisho wa Guu” are the go-to phrases. Remember, context and the people you’re interacting with will determine the variation you should use. So, the next time you’re in Japan or playing this game with Japanese-speaking friends, impress them with your knowledge of these phrases and enjoy playing “Janken!”
Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to put it into practice. Have fun learning and playing “Rock, Paper, Scissors” in Japanese!
