These are just a few examples of common personal pronouns in Japanese. The choice of pronoun often depends on factors like formality, gender, and the relationship between the speakers. As you practice, you’ll become more comfortable using the appropriate pronouns in different situations.
Watashi (わたし) – I/Me:
- Usage:
-
- Used by both men and women in formal or neutral situations.
- Examples:
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- I am a student: わたし は がくせい です (Watashi wa gakusei desu).
- Can I help you?: どうぞ おしえてください (Douzo oshiete kudasai).
Anata (あなた) – You:
- Usage:
-
- Used to address someone politely.
- Examples:
-
- How are you?: おげんき です か (Ogenki desu ka).
- Do you like music?: おんがく が すき です か (Ongaku ga suki desu ka).
Kare (かれ) – He:
- Usage:
-
- Means “he” or “boyfriend” depending on the context.
- Examples:
-
- He is a teacher: かれ は せんせい です (Kare wa sensei desu).
- Is he busy?: かれ は いそがしい です か (Kare wa isogashii desu ka).
Kanojo (かのじょ) – She:
- Usage:
-
- Means “she” or “girlfriend” depending on the context.
- Examples:
-
- She is a doctor: かのじょ は いしゃ です (Kanojo wa isha desu).
- Is she at home?: かのじょ は いえ に います か (Kanojo wa ie ni imasu ka).
Boku (ぼく) – I/Me (Informal, used by males):
- Usage:
-
- Used informally by males, especially younger ones.
- Examples:
-
- I am a student: ぼく は がくせい です (Boku wa gakusei desu).
- Can I join?: わたし も いっしょ に できます か (Watashi mo issho ni dekimasu ka).
Atashi (あたし) – I/Me (Informal, used by females):
- Usage:
-
- Used informally by females, often among friends.
- Examples:
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- I am busy: あたし は いそがしい の (Atashi wa isogashii no).
- Let’s go together: いっしょ に いきましょう (Issho ni ikimashou).