Welcome to our guide on how to say “Subaru” in Japanese! Whether you are a fan of the automobile brand or simply curious about the Japanese pronunciation, we’ll cover both formal and informal ways for you to pronounce “Subaru” correctly. So let’s dive in and explore the various ways to say “Subaru” in Japanese!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Subaru
In formal situations, such as business meetings or official conversations, it is best to use the standard pronunciation of “Subaru.” The correct way to pronounce “Subaru” in Japanese is “スバル” (Su-ba-ru). Each syllable is pronounced separately, and the emphasis should be placed on the second syllable “ba.”
To help you pronounce each syllable correctly, let’s break it down:
Su – This syllable sounds like “sue” in English, but is shorter and without the trailing “e” sound.
Ba – Pronounced as “bah,” similar to the “bah” in the word “ball.”
Ru – This syllable sounds like the English letter “r” followed by a short “oo” sound, as in the word “rude.”
When pronouncing “Subaru” formally, remember to enunciate each syllable clearly and maintain a steady, moderate pace. This pronunciation is commonly used in official settings or when discussing the brand in a professional context.
Informal Ways to Say Subaru
In informal situations or casual conversations, the pronunciation of “Subaru” can slightly differ. Locals often shorten the word, turning it into a more colloquial and relaxed version. The informal way to say “Subaru” in Japanese is “スバ” (Su-ba).
When pronouncing it informally, follow the same breakdown as before, but stop after the second syllable:
Su – Pronounced just like before, as “sue.”
Ba – Pronounced as “bah.”
This informal way of saying “Subaru” is commonly used among friends, family, or when talking casually about the brand. Remember that using informal pronunciations in formal contexts may be seen as inappropriate, so reserve this version for friendly and relaxed situations.
Regional Variations
While the standard “スバル” (Su-ba-ru) and informal “スバ” (Su-ba) pronunciations are widely accepted across Japan, it’s important to note that regional variations exist. Some dialects and regions may have their own unique ways of pronouncing “Subaru.”
- Kyushu Dialect: In parts of Kyushu, the southernmost of the four main islands, the pronunciation of “Subaru” might sound more like “Suu-baa” or “Suu-baa-ruu.” The “u” sounds are slightly elongated and emphasize the second syllable.
- Kansai Dialect: In the Kansai region, including cities like Osaka and Kyoto, the pronunciation of “Subaru” can be closer to “Suh-ba-a” or “Suh-ba-a-ru.” The syllables are drawn out, and the “r” sound is softened.
While these regional variations exist, they are not commonly used in everyday conversations outside the respective regions. Therefore, it is advisable to stick to the standard or informal pronunciations we discussed earlier, as they will be universally understood throughout Japan.
Examples
Here are a few examples to help you practice pronouncing “Subaru” in both its formal and informal ways:
Formal:
1. ウチの友達が新しいスバルを買ったよ。(My friend bought a new Subaru.)
2. スバルの品質は本当に素晴らしいですね。(The quality of Subaru is truly amazing.)
Informal:
1. あのクルマはスバだよ。(That car is a Subaru.)
2. スバの新しいモデルを見に行こうよ。(Let’s go see the new models of Subaru.)
We hope these examples assist you in using the correct pronunciation of “Subaru” in Japanese.
Remember, whether you opt for the formal or informal pronunciation, it’s essential to consider the context and the people you are interacting with. By using the appropriate pronunciation, you’ll demonstrate cultural sensitivity and enhance your communication skills.
Enjoy practicing and incorporating the correct pronunciation of “Subaru” into your Japanese conversations. Happy speaking!
