語彙
goi[ɡo̞i]
The Japanese word for vocabulary is 語彙 (goi). Wiktionary also lists 語彙力 (goiryoku).
Meaning: set of words a person knows (noun)
Ways to say it
| Japanese | Romanization (Wiktionary) | IPA |
|---|---|---|
| 語彙 | goi | [ɡo̞i] (narrow) |
| 語彙力 | goiryoku | [ɡo̞iɾʲo̞kɯ̟] (narrow) |
語彙 refers to the set of words themselves, such as the vocabulary of a language. 語彙力 is used to refer specifically to a person's vocabulary ability or their lexical competence.
What does it mean word for word?
The word 語彙 is composed of 語 (word) and 彙 (collection/category). The word 語彙力 is formed by adding 力 (power/ability) to 語彙.
Which one should you use?
語彙 refers to the actual set of words, while 語彙力 refers to the capacity or ability to use those words.
How does it change in a sentence?
When expressing the idea of improving one's command of words, the verb 鍛える (to train/hone) is commonly used with 語彙力.
How do you pronounce it?
goi
Did you know?
- In modern Japanese internet slang, 語彙力 is often used ironically to describe the state of being 'speechless' or unable to find words to express a strong emotion.
- The kanji 彙 in 語彙 is so rare that many native Japanese speakers cannot write it from memory and must rely on digital input.
- While English speakers 'expand' their vocabulary, Japanese speakers often use 鍛える to describe improving their 語彙力, a verb meaning 'to forge' or 'to train' a muscle.
Examples in context
- 語彙力を増強したい。I want to build up my vocabulary.This sentence is useful for expressing the desire to build up one's 語彙力.Tatoeba #157190 by tommy__san, translation #257343 by CM
- まずは語彙力を鍛えないとね。First you have to build up your vocabulary.This sentence is useful for saying one must build up their 語彙力.Tatoeba #10655726 by small_snow, translation #32784 by AlanF_US
- 毎日少しの時間を使って語彙の復習をするべきです。You should spend a little time each day reviewing vocabulary.This sentence is useful for suggesting a daily review of 語彙.Tatoeba #2303064 by e4zh1nmcz, translation #909593 by CK
- 私は日本の語彙について勉強しています。I am studying Japanese vocabulary.
- 8 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Misaki and Hiroto are discussing their language studies.
- 美咲 Misaki大翔さんの語彙は本当に豊富ですね。Hiroto-san no goi wa hontō ni hōfu desu ne.Hiroto, your vocabulary is really extensive.
- 大翔 Hirotoありがとうございます。本をたくさん読みますから。Arigatō gozaimasu. Hon o takusan yomimasu kara.Thank you. It's because I read a lot of books.
- 美咲 Misaki私も語彙を増やしたいです。Watashi mo goi o fuyashitai desu.I want to increase my vocabulary too.
- 大翔 Hiroto一緒に勉強しましょうか。Issho ni benkyō shimashō ka.Shall we study together?
Sources
- Wiktionary, “vocabulary” translations and entries 語彙, 語彙力, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
