5 More Weird Japanese Words We Don’t Have In English
Marie Moore
Japanese is often described as a very beautiful and poetic language but it certainly has its quirks! Last week we talked about 5 weird Japanese words we don’t have in English, but since then we’ve found even more cool, weird and interesting words that lack an English counterpart. So let’s take a look at 5 more weird Japanese words!
Mono no aware 物のあわれ
The fleeting beauty of nature and appreciating it. A very Japanese concept. If you visit Japan during cherry blossom season or when the leaves turn in Autumn you’ll see first hand mono no aware.
Shibui 渋い
Essentially “old school cool” so vintage, the kind of cool highschoolers wouldn’t understand as it envokes the feeling of nostalgia.
Ikigai 生き甲斐
Reason for living, the thing that gets you up in the morning. Aka money.
Irusu 居留守
The act of pretending you’re out when someone knocks on your door. We really need this word in English!
Komorebi 木漏れ日
A word for the sunlight that filters through the tree leaves.
If you’re interested in learning Japanese or planning to visit Japan, then don’t forget to check out our blog on 5 useful Japanese phrases at the convenience store!
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