Learning how to say different words and phrases in Japanese can be a fun and rewarding experience. Whether you want to communicate with locals during a trip to Japan or simply expand your language skills, this guide will provide you with various tips and examples for expressing “them” in Japanese. We’ll cover both formal and informal ways of saying it, while also addressing any necessary regional variations. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Them” in Japanese
If you’re in a formal setting or speaking to someone you should show respect to, you can use the following phrases:
- Anata-tachi: This is a polite way to refer to multiple individuals. However, please note that it’s best to avoid using this term when addressing people you don’t know well as it may come across as too direct.
- Karera: This term is used to refer to a group of males. It’s formal and respectful, making it suitable for formal situations or when showing deference.
- Kanojo-tachi: This phrase refers to a group of females. Similar to “karera,” it is polite and can be used in formal contexts.
Remember to use appropriate honorifics, such as “-san” or “-sama,” when addressing others in formal situations to show respect.
Informal Ways to Say “Them” in Japanese
When speaking casually or with friends, you can use these more relaxed expressions:
- Anta-tachi: This is a less formal way to refer to multiple individuals, commonly used among friends or people of similar age groups. Be cautious not to use this term with superiors or in formal situations.
- Kare-ra: Used in casual settings, “kare-ra” refers to a group of males. It’s an informal and friendly way to say “them” in Japanese.
- Kanojo-ra: In a casual context, “kanojo-ra” is used to refer to a group of females. It can be used when speaking with friends or peers.
Remember that informal language should be used appropriately, depending on your relationship with the people you’re speaking to and the situation you’re in.
Regional Variations
While Japanese is a relatively standardized language, there are some regional variations when it comes to expressing “them.” Here are a few examples:
- Yatsu-domo (Kansai dialect): In the Kansai region of Japan, people often use “yatsu-domo” instead of the standard expressions mentioned earlier. This informal term is used for both males and females, similar to “them” in English.
- Aitsu-gata (Hiroshima dialect): In Hiroshima, “aitsu-gata” is used to refer to groups of people. This term has a casual and relaxed feel to it, suitable for informal conversations.
While these regional variations can add color to your Japanese vocabulary, it’s best to stick to the standard phrases mentioned earlier unless you’re familiar with the specific local dialect.
Tips and Examples
Here are some tips and examples to help you confidently express “them” in Japanese:
Tip 1: Consider the formality of the situation when choosing how to say “them.” The formal phrases mentioned earlier are more appropriate in official or polite contexts, while the informal ones are used in casual conversations with friends or peers.
Tip 2: Pay attention to the gender of the group you’re referring to. Japanese often distinguishes between males and females when addressing groups.
Example 1: We should invite them to the party. (Formal)
– Party ni anata-tachi o sasoinasaimashou.
– パーティーにあなたたちを招いてください。
Example 2: I saw them at the park. (Informal)
– Kouen de kare-ra o mita yo.
– 公園で彼らを見たよ。
Example 3: They are waiting for us. (Kansai dialect)
– Yatsu-domo ga bokura o matteru.
– 奴らが僕らを待ってる。
Remember, practice makes perfect. Don’t hesitate to use these phrases in your Japanese conversations or role-play them to boost your confidence.
Now armed with this guide, you’re well on your way to expressing “them” in Japanese appropriately and confidently, whether in formal or informal settings. Enjoy your language learning journey and have fun connecting with others through the beauty of the Japanese language!
