Manga And Anime Basics
There are a few Japanese words you should know.
Here’s a list of common manga and anime terms. I’ve
provided a pronunciation guide with each.
Anime (AH-nee-may) – Anime is a French word for
“animation.” It was adopted by the Japanese to describe
all Japanese animation. (It might seem odd that a French
word is used to describe Japanese animation – but it’s
true.)
Bishoujo (bee-SHO-jo) – “beautiful girl.”
Bishounen (bee-SHO-nen) – “beautiful boy.”
Chibi (CHEE-bee) – “small.” It usually refers to a
child-proportioned version of a manga or anime
character. Chibi are usually used to add a little humor,
or as a joke within the story. For example, if Faye
from Cowboy Bebop is shown as a little girl, that
version of her is the Chibi version.
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Doujinshi (doh-JEEN-shee) – manga created by fans
(like you). Most of the time it involves people creating
their own stories using their favorite manga, anime, or
game characters. Doujinshi is extremely popular in
Japan.
Kawaii (kah-WAH-ee) – “super cute.”
Manga (MAHN-gah) – “whimsical or careless
drawings.” Stands for Japanese comic books.
Otaku (oh-TAH-ku) – nickname given to someone
obsessed with being a fan. If you dress up like Goku
from Dragon Ball Z on a regular basis, you’re
definitely an Otaku.
RPG – Role Playing Game. Many manga and anime
artists help design characters, backgrounds, and levels
for video RPGs.
Shoujo (SHO-jo) – “young girl.” The term refers to
comics that are aimed at young girls. Also stands for
“girl’s manga.”
Shounen (SHO-nen) – “young male.” The term refers
to comics aimed at young males. Also stands for
“boy’s manga.