y
In Japanese, y is a shortened, informal way of asking why, used primarily in text messaging and online chat.
In digital communication, y acts as a shorthand for the question 'why'.
Did you know?
- Japanese has no single word for 'why' that is neutral in all contexts. Depending on the word chosen, the speaker can sound accusing, curious or purely logical.
- Using y in a professional email or a message to a superior would be seen as a significant breach of etiquette, as it ignores the strict levels of politeness required in Japanese society.
Examples in context
- 原点を中心とする半径2の円と，直線 y = x − 1 の交点を求めよ。Consider a circle of radius 2 centered at the origin. Find its points of intersection with the line y = x – 1.This sentence shows the use of y in a mathematical equation involving a line.Tatoeba #2715448 by tommy_san, translation #10068732 by tsp_2
- 放物線 y=x²−4x+7 をx軸方向に3，y軸方向に−2だけ平行移動して得られる放物線の方程式を求めよ。Let's find the equation that shifts the parabola y=x²−4x+7 three spaces on the x-axis and -2 spaces on the y-axis.This sentence shows the use of y in a mathematical equation involving a parabola.Tatoeba #4908371 by tommy_san, translation #4922087 by gustonrankin
Example conversation
Yui and Ren are texting each other about a cancelled plan.
- 蓮 Ren明日、行けなくなった。Ashita, ikenaku natta.I can't go tomorrow anymore.
- 結衣 Yuiy？y?Why?
- 蓮 Ren急に用事ができたから。Kyuu ni youji ga dekita kara.Because something came up suddenly.
- 結衣 Yuiそっか。了解！Sokka. Ryoukai!I see. Got it!
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
