Wasei Eigo: Curious English Words That Have a Totally Different Meaning

Wasei-Eigo, or "Japanese-made English," refers to English words that have been adopted into the Japanese language but have taken on entirely new meanings. These words often cause confusion for Japanese speakers when they travel abroad, as they are not recognized or understood in the same way by native English speakers.

What is Wasei-Eigo?

Wasei-Eigo is distinct from gairaigo, which are Japanese words derived from foreign languages but retain their original meanings. Wasei-Eigo words, however, have evolved to have unique meanings that are specific to the Japanese context. These words are typically written in the katakana writing system, which is used for words of foreign origin, onomatopoeia, and ideophones.

Common Examples of Wasei-Eigo

1. Salaryman (サラリーマン)

In Japan, a "salaryman" refers to a businessman who works for a fixed salary, typically in a corporate setting. This term encompasses all employees who work in such environments, regardless of their specific roles. Unlike in many Western countries, where job titles are more specific, the term "salaryman" is a broad category that includes men and women, although women are often referred to as "office ladies" or "OL" for short.

2. Barcode Hair (バーコードヘア)

"Barcode hair" is the Japanese term for a comb-over hairstyle, where men attempt to cover their balding spots by combing the remaining hair from the sides of their head over the top. This style can sometimes resemble a barcode due to the sparse coverage.

3. Baby Car (ベビーカー)

In Japan, a "baby car" is not a vehicle but a stroller or pram. This term is commonly used by parents and caregivers to refer to the device used to transport babies.

4. Viking (バイキング)

"Viking" in Japanese refers to a buffet-style meal, particularly at restaurants where customers serve themselves. This term has no relation to the historical Vikings but is used to describe the self-service dining experience.

5. Key Holder (キー・ホルダー)

A "key holder" in Japan is what English speakers would call a key ring or key chain. This term can cause confusion when Japanese travelers ask for a "key holder" as a souvenir, which might not be immediately understood by native English speakers.

6. Consent (コンセント)

In Japan, "consent" is used to refer to an electrical outlet or plug socket. This is a significant departure from the English meaning of "consent," which refers to agreement or permission.

7. Live House (ライブハウス)

A "live house" in Japan is a music venue, often smaller and more intimate than a large concert hall. These venues are popular for live music performances and are known for their lively atmosphere.

8. My Boom (マイブーム)

"My boom" refers to a current obsession or trend that someone is particularly enthusiastic about. For example, someone might say that "kawaii character lattes are my boom," indicating that they are currently very interested in these lattes.

Practical Tips for Understanding Wasei-Eigo

• Context is Key: Understanding the context in which these words are used is crucial. For instance, if someone mentions "salaryman," they are likely referring to a corporate employee, not a specific job title.
• Be Aware of Misinterpretations: Japanese speakers may use these words assuming they are universally understood, which can lead to misunderstandings when communicating with native English speakers.
• Learn Common Wasei-Eigo Terms: Familiarizing yourself with common Wasei-Eigo words can help you navigate everyday conversations in Japan more smoothly.

Cultural Insights

Wasei-Eigo reflects the unique cultural and linguistic adaptations that occur when languages intersect. These words often highlight the differences in societal norms and daily life between Japan and English-speaking countries. For example, the term "salaryman" underscores the importance of corporate culture in Japan, while "live house" reflects the vibrant music scene in the country.

Avoiding Confusion

To avoid confusion, it's helpful for both Japanese and English speakers to be aware of these differences. When communicating across languages, clarifying the meanings of such words can prevent misunderstandings and enhance mutual understanding. Additionally, recognizing that these words are part of a distinct linguistic phenomenon can foster greater appreciation for the complexities of language and culture.