japanese

word

/ˌdʒæpəˈniz/
jap-uh-NEEZ
/ˌdʒæpəˈniz/
jap-uh-NEEZ

Definition

Japanese can describe something from Japan, a person from Japan, or the language spoken there. The exact meaning depends on the sentence.

Usage & Nuances

Usually capitalized: 'Japanese'. It is commonly used as an adjective ('Japanese food'), a noun for the language ('learn Japanese'), and sometimes for a person ('She is Japanese'). For nationality, English often prefers 'a Japanese person' in careful usage.

Example Sentences

I like Japanese food.

basic

She is Japanese.

basic

He studies Japanese at school.

basic

I've been trying to learn Japanese, but the writing system is hard.

natural

Her boss is Japanese, so their meetings are sometimes in Japanese too.

natural

That little Japanese place near the station is really good.

natural