The generic word for friend in Japanese is 友人 (yuujin). Japanese people have many different ways to say the word friend. These words depend on how close the relationship is and with whom they are speaking. This article will discuss the words you can use to talk about your friend in Japanese.
Be aware that, unlike in other languages such as English, it isn’t common to refer directly to your friend with these words. They will typically be used to introduce them to other people.
Common Words for Friend in Japanese
Here are some general words for friend in Japanese. Be careful to note the level of politeness or intimacy in each!
1. 友達 (Tomodachi) – Friend
The word 友達 (tomodachi) means friend or friends. The suffix -達 (dachi) is technically the Japanese plural form, but you can use tomodachi to refer to either one friend or many. However, these days, tomodachi has become more of a word meaning “one friend” instead of many. It is still not wrong to refer to many friends as your tomodachi though. It is even possible to add another “たち” to the end to make it clear that you are talking about many friends, like this: 友達たち (tomodachi-tachi).
Also, it recommended by 教育出版 (Kyoiku Shuppan) – a famous company in Japan that publishes educational materials) to write the 達 (tachi) in hiragana like this: 友たち (tomotachi) if you want to make it clear you are talking about more than one friend.
- 友達 (tomodachi) = friend; friends
- 友たち (tomotachi) = friends
The word tomodachi is more casual than the previously mentioned yuujin. Tomodachi is not a slang word, but it also isn’t polite or honorific Japanese. However, you can use tomodachi in everyday conversations with people you don’t know (store workers, people you just meet, etc.).
You can combine tomodachi with other words to express the type of friends you have:
- 男友達 (otoko-tomodachi): male friend(s)
- 女友達 (onna-tomodachi): female friend(s)
- 飲み友達 (nomi-tomodachi): drinking friend(s)
- 遊び友達 (asobi-tomodachi): playmate(s)
You can also use 友達 to refer to anything that is your friend, even if they are not human (examples #3 and 4 below).
Examples:
1. My friend Tom is coming over tonight.
今夜、友達のトムさんが遊びに来る。
(Konya, tomodachi no Tom-san ga asobi ni kuru.)
2. I went to the mall with my friends yesterday.
昨日、友達と一緒にモールに行った。
(Kinou, tomodachi to issho ni mooru ni itta.)
3. I became friends with a neighbor’s dog “Koro”.
僕は近所の犬のコロと友達になりました。
(Boku wa kinjo no inu no Koro to tomodachi ni narimashita.)
4. Books are my friends.
本が私の友達です。
(Hon ga watashi no tomodachi desu.)
2. 友人 (Yuujin) – Friend (Polite)
As mentioned at the beginning of this article, 友人 (yuujin) is the basic and polite way to say friend in Japanese. Translated, it means familiar/friendly person.
Yuujin is a “safe” way to say friend in Japanese because it’s polite—but not too polite. This means that you can use it with people in your inner circle and not come across as cold or aloof. However, it is more formal than tomodachi, which is why you would use 友人 (yuujin) when talking to your superiors (your boss, customers, etc.)
Unlike tomodachi, yuujin can only be used to refer to human friends.
Example:
I received this hat from a friend.
この帽子は友人からもらいました。
(Kono boushi wa yuujin kara moraimashita.)
3. 親友 (Shinyuu) – Best Friend
In Japanese, the word 親友 (shinyuu) is reserved for close friends or friends who you’ve known for a long time. It derives from the same kanji as the adjective 親しい (shitashii), or intimate. You can also refer to a close friend as 親しい友達 (shitashii tomodachi) or 親しい友人 (shitashii yuujin) for the same effect.
Shinyuu has the same nuance as the English phrase best friend. You can make this word even stronger by saying 大親友 (daishinyuu), or very best friend.
Examples:
1. Taro has been my best friend since childhood.
太郎は子供の頃からの親友です。
(Tarou wa kodomo no koro kara no shinyuu desu.)
2. I sent a card to my dear friend in the hospital.
入院 した親しい友達にカードを送りました。
(Nyuuin shita shitashii tomodachi ni kaado o okurimashita.)
4. 仲間 ( Nakama ) – Companion, Comrade
A danger of learning Japanese only through manga or anime is that you might find misleading translations for words like 仲間 (nakama). Many media platforms translate nakama into “friend” or even “buddy.” In reality, the word has far less familiarity with its meaning.
In Japanese, nakama implies comradery, but not necessarily friendship. Your nakama could be a fellow player on your basketball team. They are your nakama whether you are close friends or not.
Of course, nakama does have a positive nuance. It would not be correct to refer to a teammate you dislike as nakama. However, it is a common mistake to refer to your bosom buddy or childhood friend as nakama. Use this word for friend with care.
Example:
Please let me join your team!
仲間に入れてください！
(Nakama ni irete kudasai!)
5. 味方 (Mikata) – Ally, Partner, Comrade
The word 味方 (mikata) is also used often in Japanese media. It also suffers from some translation issues, probably because there is another word with the same pronunciation. 見方 (mikata) is also a common words, but notice that the kanji is different. This 見方 (mikata) means “viewpoint” or “the way you look at something.”
味方 (mikata) on the other hand means ally or partner in English. It is used to describe someone who shares the same group or circumstances that you do.
Like with nakama, you should avoid using the word mikata for people you don’t really like. It is still a far less endearing term than tomodachi or yuujin.
味方 (mikata) can also be used to talk about non-human things that are your friends or allies. (example #3 below)
Example:
1. Yoko took sides with me when the teacher got mad at me.
先生に怒られたとき、洋子さんは私の味方になってくれた。
(Sensei ni okorareta toki, Youko-san wa watashi no mikata ni natte kureta.)
2. I thought you were my ally, but you betrayed me.
味方だと思ってたのに、裏切られた。
(Mikata dato omotteta noni, uragirareta.)
3. I could hit a home run because the wind was on my side.
風が味方してくれたので、ホームランが打てた。
(Kaze ga mikata shite kureta node hoomuran ga uteta.)
Situational Words for Friend
Some words for friend in Japanese can only be used in certain situations or professional relationships. Here are some situation-specific ways to say friend.
6. 相棒 ( Aibou ) – Partner
相棒 (aibou) is a not really a common word for friend in Japanese, but it is used by some people—so long as you and that friend share the same goal or purpose and works towards it together. In certain situations, aibou can even be used to speak about a friend who is also your business partner. Detectives in Japanese dramas may also call each other aibou. This word is a bit friendlier than nakama but is in the same subgenre of meaning.
If you can read the kanji, you may be a little confused. The kanji is comprised of 相 (ai, meaning mutual or each other) and 棒 (bou, meaning stick or rod). What does a stick have to do with being friends?
The origin of the word aibou comes from 2 people who carried a basket (called “kago”) that was used to transport a person back in the olden days of Japan (possibly from before the Edo era, but it is not certain). The pair of basket carriers (called “kago no mono”) called each other aibou. You can read more about it here in Japanese: The meaning of aibou (website in Japanese only).
Example:
My partner here is a well-known writer.
うちの相棒はかなり有名な作家です。
(Uchi no aibou wa kanari yuumei na sakka desu.)
7. 同僚 (Douryou) – Colleague, Associate
If you are friends with a colleague or a close associate, 同僚 (douryou) would be a suitable word to use. 同 (dou) means “same” in Japanese and is used in many other terms. Because douryou implies a similarity between you and your friend, you wouldn’t be able to use the word for a friend in a different workplace or career than yourself.
Example:
Today, my coworker and I went to a ramen shop for our lunch break.
今日の昼休みに、同僚と一緒にラーメン屋さんへ行った。
(Kyou no hiruyasumi ni, douryou to issho ni raamen-ya san e itta.)
8. 同級生 ( Doukyuusei ) – Classmate, Peer
The word 同級生 (doukyuusei) is a way to say friend or peer in Japanese. It’s rooted in Japanese 先輩・後輩 (senpai/kouhai), or senior/junior culture. A doukyuusei is neither a senpai (senior) nor a kouhai (junior). They are someone who is right on level with you, either in age or in rank. Doukyuusei is most often used to refer to a friend who is also a classmate in the same grade.
Example:
John and I were classmates in elementary and middle school.
ジョンさんとは小学校と中学校で同級生だった。
(Jon-san towa shougakkou to chuugakkou de doukyuusei datta.)
Like any other language, Japanese has slang words. Here are a few popular slang terms for friend. Be sure not to use them with your boss or with your elders!
9. 友 ( Tomo ) – Friend (Casual)
You may recognize the kanji in the word 友 (tomo). It’s the same as the first character in tomodachi, and the meaning is the same. Removing the suffix (-dachi) and just saying “tomo“ is a more casual way to say friend in Japanese.
However, this is only when you combine 友 (tomo) with other words. 友 (tomo) by itself is rarely used in daily conversations. It is mostly for written items like poems, songs, or song lyrics. Combining it with other words turns it into a common, conversational word. Some common ones are:
- 飲み友 (nomi-tomo): drinking buddy
- メル友 (meru-tomo): E-pal
Example:
Good morning, friend!
友よ！おはよう！
(Tomo yo! Ohayou!)
10. ダチ ( Dachi ) – Pal, Buddy, Bro
This is the same rule as with tomo but applied to the second half of tomodachi. Although it’s always written in katakana, ダチ (dachi) is the same 達 (dachi) in 友達 (tomodachi).
This is a very casual Japanese slang word. It’s an older term that might not be trendy in daily conversation but is sure to show up in TV dramas or anime. Dachi is also used between friends as a joke or an endearing tease. It is also masculine, so it is usually only used by men.
Example:
We’re pals, right?
俺たちはダチでしょう？
(Oretachi wa dachi deshou?)
11. ツレ ( Tsure ) – Companion
ツレ (tsure) is a Japanese slang word for friend used during social events. It derives from the word 連れ (tsure), or to bring. The implication is that this friend is your “plus one”—it can be romantic or platonic and can be used between husbands and wives.
Example:
I came with my wife, Misaki.
ツレは妻の美咲です。
(Tsure wa tsuma no Misaki desu.)
12. バディー ( Badii ) – Buddy, Compatriot, Partner
As it is a loan word, バディー (badii) is a very casual way to say partner or friend in Japanese. It isn’t a mainstream slang word anymore, but you can still hear it in a classic detective movie or read it in a manga.
Example:
I swear, I’ll save my partner!
俺のバディーを絶対に助けに行く！
(Ore no badii o zettai ni tasuke ni iku!)
Conclusion
There are various ways to say friend in Japanese, depending on your relationship with the friend or the company you find yourself in. If you’re in a pinch, the words yuujin and tomodachi are the most frequently used and are okay to use in most situations.
What are some ways to say friend in your language? Let us know in the comments! Thank you for reading this article on how to say friend in Japanese!
By
Last updated:
February 3, 2022
With 130 million Japanese speakers on the planet, it would be surprising if you didn’t know one or two of them.
If you’ve been studying Japanese for any length of time, you’ve likely gotten to know at least one native Japanese speaker to some extent.
They might be a teacher at your school, a classmate, the new guy in the shipping logistics office at your job or possibly someone you met on Twitch or another video chat service.
Inevitably, you’re going to need to describe your relationships with these friends and acquaintances.
Below, I’ll teach you 11 different ways to say “friend” in Japanese and show you exactly when to use each one!
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Click here to get a copy. (Download)
How to Say Friend in Japanese: From BFFs to Business Associates
“Friend” is an important word, and it’s equally important to know how to use it correctly.
It’s also important to understand that using the word “friend” in spoken Japanese is not quite as simple as it is in English.
My friend Yoshiko explained it to me like this:
We do not use the word friend like you do in English. It would not be unusual for you to say to me something like, “Yoshiko, would you be my friend?” in English, but it would be a little strange if I were to say that to you in Japanese. We don’t really talk about being friends with the person we are friends with. We would find that uncomfortable. If you want to know if we are friends, [see if] I am speaking with you in a friendly way.
So, why have the word “friend” at all?
Yoshiko continued:
We talk about our friends, colleagues, co-workers and other people we know or are close to in more of a third person way. I would say to my brother, “My friend John bought a television” or, “My co-workers went to eat sushi.”
Yoshiko also pointed out that there are, in fact, many words in Japanese that express friendship, but that most should be used with great care because they might only be spoken by certain types of people or in very specific situations.
Basic Ways to Say Friend in Japanese
友達 (ともだち) — Friend
This is the most recognizable word for “friend” that students of Japanese come across, and with good reason. It’s the most analogous in usage to the English word and has the broadest use.
You’ll see the word in movie titles (きみの友だち (きみの ともだち) — “Your Friend”), book titles (彼はトモダチ (かれは ともだち)— “He Is a Friend”) and popular songs (ともだち — “Friend”) as well.
アキラは私の友達です。 (あきらは わたしの ともだち です。) — Akira is my friend.
私の友達は赤いジャケットを着ています。 (わたしの ともだちは あかい じゃけっとを きています。) — My friend wears a red jacket.
私の友達は政府機関に逮捕されました。 (わたしの ともだちは せいふきかんに たいほされました。) — My friend has been arrested by agents of the government.
友達 (ともだち) should also be considered a casual word—polite, but not appropriate for very formal conversation.
友人 (ゆうじん) — Friend (formal)
You might see 友人 (ゆうじん) used in older Japanese language textbooks that rely on a more formal version of spoken Japanese. If a lot of your Japanese practice comes from manga or anime, you’re a little less likely to see this usage outside of very specific scenes.
私の友人は向こうにいます。 (わたしの ゆうじんは むこうに います。) — My friend is way over there.
月に住んでいる友人がいます。 (つきに すんでいる ゆうじんが います。) — I have a friend who lives on the moon.
私の友人は月の皇帝です。 (わたしの ゆうじんは つきの こうてい です。) — My friend is the Emperor of the Moon.
親しい (したしい) — Close friend
When you’re talking about close friends or even best friends, you can use 親しい (したしい). Just remember that it works best when talking about someone in the third person—not with the person you’re describing as a close friend.
彼らは親しい友人です。 (かれらは したしい ゆうじん です。) — They are best friends.
彼は彼女と親しいですか？ (かれは かのじょと したしい ですか？) — Is he close to her?
私は犬を訓練する人と非常に親しいです。(わたしは いぬを くんれんする ひとと ひじょうに したしい です。) — I am very close to people who train dogs.
親友 (しんゆう) — Close friend
This also refers to someone who’s a close friend. As with 親しい (したしい), 親友 (しんゆう) is reserved for very close friends, and the same rules apply when using it.
彼女の親友は猫です。 (かのじょの しんゆうは ねこ です。) — Her best friend is a cat.
私の親友の猫は私を好きではありません。 (わたしの しんゆうの ねこは わたしを すきでは ありません。) — My close friend’s cat doesn’t like me.
私の親友は誰も猫を飼っていません。 (わたしの しんゆうは だれも ねこを かっていません。) — None of my close friends have cats.
大親友 (だいしんゆう) — Very best friend
Many students will recognize that the addition of 大 (だい) to the beginning of 親友 (しんゆう) indicates that 大親友 (だいしんゆう) refers to a very best friend.
私の大親友は魔法の豆を買った。 (わたしの だいしんゆうは まほうの まめを かった。) — My best friend bought some magic beans.
私の大親友は魔法の豆を植えた。 (わたしの だいしんゆうは まほうの まめを うえた。) — My best friend planted some magic beans.
巨大な植物が私の大親友を雲に連れて行ってくれた。 (きょだいな しょくぶつが わたしの だいしんゆうを くもに つれていって くれた。) — A giant plant carried my very best friend up to the clouds.
ダチ (だち) — Buddy, bro (very informal slang, outdated)
While a dated phrase, you may run across ダチ (だち) in an older manga or anime series. It’s slang that’s used mostly by young people and is considered very informal speech. As such, it should be used with care. These days, it probably shouldn’t be used at all unless you’re absolutely confident that you’re using it in the correct context.
Its inclusion in this post is more for you to be able to recognize it when it appears in reading or viewing material.
俺のダチはレースカーが好きだ。 (おれの だちは れーすかーが すきだ。 ) — My friends like race cars.
ダチの車が衝突した！ (だちの くるまが しょうとつした！) — My friend’s car has crashed!
ダチが燃えてる！助けてくれ！ (だちが もえてる！ たすけてくれ！) — My friends are on fire! Help!
Note that when referring to a close friend, you’d say マブダチ (まぶだち) — best buddy/bro (very informal). Again, care should be used, as it’s an outdated phrase and highly informal.
I’d even go so far as to say that you should never use ダチ (だち) or マブダチ (まぶだち) in a conversation, but at least now you can recognize them when you come across them.
連れ (つれ) or ツレ — Friend (informal, slang)
連れ (つれ), sometimes written as ツレ, is another informal/slang term for a friend or companion and is most often used by young men. As with most slang words, you’re going to want to be careful how you use it and probably avoid it unless you’re certain you’re using it in the right context.
ツレは全員東京に行ってしまった。(つれは ぜんいん とうきょうに いってしまった。) — All of my friends have gone to Tokyo.
東京が消えて以来、俺は連れに会っていない。 (とうきょうが きえていらい、おれは つれに あっていない。) — I have not seen friends since Tokyo disappeared.
連れの消息を聞いたことがあるかい？ (つれの しょうそくを きいたことが あるかい？) — Have you heard the news of my friends?
Ways to Talk About Specific Kinds of Friends in Japanese
相棒 (あいぼう) — Partner, friend, associate
When referring to a partner in a common activity, you might choose to use 相棒 (あいぼう) when describing the relationship. The friendship is usually linked to a similar interest in something. 相棒 (あいぼう) can describe this relationship in a very friendly manner and is similar to the English word “buddy.”
僕の相棒は二人共、切手収集家だ。 (ぼくの あいぼうは ふたりとも きってしゅうしゅうか だ。) — Both [partners] of them are stamp collectors.
俺の相棒はとってもテニスがうまい。(おれの あいぼうは とっても てにすが うまい。) — My buddy is a very skilled tennis player.
相棒もチェスクラブにいる。 (あいぼうも ちぇす くらぶに いる。) — My friend is also in the chess club.
仲間 (なかま) — Colleague, fellow, comrade
You often hear this word used in anime or see it in manga. It’s a little rarer in general conversation, but it can be used in a few specific contexts. Its meaning stresses the collegial nature of a friendship, either professionally or within a social group. In English, you might associate it with the words “fellow” or “comrade.”
仲間が富士山に登ります。 (なかまが ふじさんに のぼります。) — My friends climb Mount Fuji.
その人は私の仲間です。 (そのひとは わたしの なかま です。) — That man is my comrade.
私達は皆、チェスクラブの仲間です。 (わたしたちは みな、ちぇす くらぶの なかま です。) — We are all friends of the chess club.
Ways to Refer to Friends Around the Office in Japanese
We all have friends who are more “work friends” than friends we’d normally socialize with outside of the workplace. The Japanese are no different. When expressing this type of friendship, you can use the following words.
同僚 (どうりょう) — Co-worker, colleague
This word refers to a co-worker or colleague.
同僚は今夜、バーで会っている。 (どうりょうは こんや、ばーで あっている。) — My co-workers are meeting at the bar tonight.
同僚は昨夜、非常に酔っていた。 (どうりょうは さくや、ひじょうに よっていた。) — My colleagues got very drunk last night.
同僚は全員、刑務所にいる。 (どうりょうは ぜんいん、けいむしょに いる。) — All of my co-workers are in jail.
盟友 (めいゆう) — Business colleague or co-worker, political ally
When referring to a business colleague or when indicating an ally in a political context, you can use 盟友.
私の盟友は政治職に立候補しています。(わたしの めいゆうは せいじしょくに りっこうほ しています。) — My colleague is running for political office.
私は緑の党に盟友がいません。 (わたしは みどりのとうに めいゆうが いません。) — I have no allies in the Green Party.
盟友と私は固い握手を交わした。(めいゆうと わたしは かたい あくしゅを かわした。) — My colleague and I clasped hands.
While Japanese speakers may not explicitly discuss friendship among each other, there’s no shortage of Japanese words or phrases to indicate a variety of friendship types. The range of words referencing friendship outnumber those in English, but, as with any language, it’s important to understand the context behind a word before using it.
In most cases, 友達 (ともだち) and 友人 (ゆうじん) are the safest choices.
But, go ahead and explore the broad spectrum of ways to express friendship in Japanese. Talking about friendship is always a good thing!
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can take anywhere.
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Close friend, best friend, childhood friend, BFF – we describe our friendships in English using adjectives before the word ‘friend’. We can use other words for people we know from work and school such as colleague, acquaintance, peer and so on.
It should come as no surprise that Japanese has more than one word for ‘friend’! Yes, there is a whole world outside of just tomodachi for describing our different friends in life.
The kanji characters for these words can help us understand and memorize the meaning behind each way to say ‘friend’ in Japanese.
For example the kanji character 友（とも/ ゆう・tomo / yuu）found in tomodachi means ‘friend’, and it appears in several words about friendship.
There are many types of ‘friend’ words which don’t use this kanji though, and today we hope you walk away better informed with some new vocab up your sleeve!
- tomodachi
- yuujin
- shinyuu
- daishinyuu
- nakama
- mikata
- douryou
- osananajimi
- shiriai
tomodachi
友達 / ともだち
friend
Tomodachi (友達 / ともだち) is first up and it’s the one that you probably already know. It’s divided into two kanji characters tomo (友 / とも) which means friend, and dachi (達 / だち) which refers to the plural form of the noun for ‘person’ (more than one).
For example watashi means ‘I’ in Japanese but watashi-tachi (私達 / わたしたち) means ‘we’ or ‘us’. So tomo-dachi literally translates to ‘friends’!
But it actually doesn’t matter whether it’s one, two or more friends you are talking about, tomodachi is both singular and plural.
For example, you might say:
Tomodachi ga shigoto wo shoukai shite kureta.
友達が仕事を紹介してくれた。
ともだちがしごとをしょうかいしてくれた。
My friend introduced me to a job.
Or on a travel website, it might say:
Tomodachi to issho ni kyanpu wo tanoshimeru!
友達と一緒にキャンプを楽しめる！
ともだちといっしょにキャンプをたのしめる！
Enjoy camping together with friends!
Tomodachi can be used in most situations, but it doesn’t reveal any details about the closeness of the friendship. Tomodachi could be a friend who you just enjoy spending time with, or it could mean someone you’re close to… we’ll never know!
yuujin
友人 / ゆうじん
friend (polite)
Yuujin (友人 / ゆうじん) is the formal version of tomodachi and shares the same first kanji 友 (friend), pronounced here as yuu with its Chinese reading (onyomi). If you’ve learned the Grade 1 Jōyō kanji, you will recognize the next character人 (じん/jin) which means person!
Like tomodachi, yuujin can be both singular or plural, so you can refer to one or many friends using this word. The difference is that yuujin is used in formal situations while tomodachi is a casual word used by children too.
If speaking about a friend in a job interview, work, or at special event, yuujin is more appropriate:
Yuujin wo daihyou shite Yamada-sama, supeechi wo onegai itashi masu.
友人を代表して山田様、スピーチをお願い致します。
ゆうじんをだいひょうしてやまださま、スピーチをおねがいいたします。
On behalf of her friend(s), we humbly request Ms. Yamada-sama to make a speech.
Yuujin can be used in casual conversation too, it’s just less common than tomodachi!
shinyuu
親友 / しんゆう
close friend, best friend
Shinyuu (親友 / しんゆう) doesn’t have a direct translation in English, but we know from its kanji characters that this friend is closer than your tomodachi or yuujin.
Shin (親) means ‘intimate’ and as we know tomo / yuu（友）means ‘friend’. While ‘intimate friend’ would sound pretty weird in English, shinyuu can mean close friend or best friend.Your shinyuu is the friend you have a deep connection with and who is there during the good and bad times. They are special to you!
You can use shinyuu to distinguish this friend from the rest.
daishinyuu
大親友 / だいしんゆう
best friend, great friend, BFF
We know shinyuu is a really close friend but daishinyuu (大親友/だいしんゆう) is your BFF (best friend forever)! The first character, dai (大 / だい) means ‘big’ or ‘great’ and emphasizes that this person is indeed your number one friend.
Rie-chan, watashi tachi wa daishinyuu desho?
りえちゃん、私たちは大親友でしょ？
りえちゃん、わたしたちはだいしんゆうでしょ？
Rie-chan, we’re best friends / BFF’s right?
nakama
仲間 / なかま
mate, friend, pal, peer
Nakama (仲間 / なかま) refers to the relationship between people who do a professional or shared activity together whether its work, a hobby, a club etc.
Nakama has two kanji: 仲 (なか/naka) which means ‘relation’ or ‘relationship’ and 間（ま/ma）which means ‘among’ and ‘between’.
Kare wa sakaa bu no nakama desu.
彼はサッカー部の仲間です。
かれはサッカーぶのなかまです。
He’s my mate from the football / soccer club.
Nakama is popular in anime because its group-oriented, and members share a common goal or aspiration.
mikata
味方 / みかた
ally, supporter, comrade, partner
Mikata (味方 / みかた) describes a friendship where you are ‘on someone’s side’ or you share the same goal or circumstances. In this way it is similar to nakama, your companion through a shared activity.
Mikata introduces two completely different kanji again!
味 (mi) means taste/flavor but it also means feeling or sense.
方 (kata) means a direction, so we could think of mikata as a sense for the same direction, if that makes it easier to remember!
Most likely said by a guy to his comrade:
Daijoubu, ore wa kimi no mikata da yo!
大丈夫、俺は君の味方だよ！
だいじょうぶ、おれはきみのみかただよ！
Don’t worry, I’m on your side no matter what! / It’s okay, I’m your ally no matter what!
douryou
同僚 / どうりょう
coworker, colleague
Douryou is a formal expression that we can use for our coworkers. The kanji 同 (どう / dou) means ‘same’ in English, and 僚 (りょう/ ryou) means an official, a colleague or a companion. Therefore we can think about douryou as people who share the same workplace.
Kinou, douryou to sushi wo tabeta.
昨日、同僚と寿司を食べた。
きのう、どうりょうとすしをたべた。
Yesterday, I ate sushi with my colleague.
osananajimi
幼馴染 / おさななじみ
childhood friend
Osananajimi is a childhood friend you grew up with and it has an air of nostalgia about it. 幼 (おさな/osana) means ‘childhood’, 馴 (な/na) is the kanji for ‘to get used to’ and 染 (じみ/jimi) means to dye or stain.
While the last kanji is a little random, we could remember osananajimi as a friend who you knew for so long, they’re stuck in your memory like a dye stain on your clothes. How’s that for memorization?
shiriai
知り合い / しりあい
acquaintance
Shiriai (知り合い / しりあい) combines two words, shiri (知り) meaning ‘to know’ and ai (会い/あい) meaning ‘to meet’. Shiriai translates to ‘acquaintance’ in English, the people you meet in different settings through work or a mutual friend for example.
Kanojo no shiriai ga ooi desu.
彼女の知り合いが多いです。
かのじょのしりあいがおおいです。
She has a large circle of acquaintances / She has many acquaintances.
A similar word to shiriai is chijin (知人/ちじん) which refers to someone whom you know by name and are familiar with.
So, now you know lots of different ways to say friend in Japanese.
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Related posts:
- How To Say ‘I’ In Japanese
- How To Say ‘You’ In Japanese
Francesca Rex-Horoi
Francesca is a freelance copywriter and teacher, who moved to Tokyo from New Zealand at age 24. A linguistics and ESL major, she spent 3 years teaching at an all-boys high school. Now based in France, she remains a self-confessed Japanophile who loves kanji, cooking, cats and the outdoors.
Ah, the friendship! It’s one of the most important things in life, and of course, there are many ways to call someone a friend in Japanese. In this article, we’re going to explore the different ways to refer to a friend in the Japanese language, so that you can strengthen those valuable bonds. Let’s go!
We recommend reading: Vocabulary – Relationships, love and friendship in Japanese
Tomodachi (友達)
The most common word for «friend» in Japanese is tomodachi (友達). This word is used by both men and women and is used in a variety of contexts from childhood to adulthood.
The word «tomodachi» is often used to describe casual friendships and budding relationships with people who may or may not be intimate.
The word 友達 (tomodachi) is composed of the characters [友] “tomo” meaning “together” and [達] “dachi” meaning “friend”, indicating that it is someone who is together in some situation.
Nakama (仲間)
Another common word for «friend» in Japanese is nakama (仲間). Nakama is a word more used in group contexts, such as on a work team or at a sports club.
The word “nakama” is composed of the characters “naka” meaning “relationship” and “ma” meaning “person”, indicating that it is someone with whom you have a close relationship.
We also recommend reading: Meaning of Nakama – Comrade in Japanese
Shin-yuu (親友)
Shin-yuu (親友) is a word used to describe a close friend, best friend or confidant. It is an intimate and long-term friendship relationship, in which there is a strong emotional bond between the two people.
The word “shin-yuu” is composed of the characters “shin” meaning “close” and “yuu” meaning “friend”, indicating that it is someone who is close emotionally.
The Japanese have a very thoughtful approach towards friendships and believe that true friendship should be based on trust, loyalty and mutual support. Thus, when someone is called “shin-yuu”, it indicates that the friendship is very strong and lasting.
Yūjin (友人)
«Yūjin» (友人) is another Japanese word for «friend». This word is used to describe a person with whom you have a respectful friendship and cordial relationship.
It’s a more formal word and is often used in professional or social contexts, such as to describe a co-worker or an acquaintance at a party.
The word “yūjin” is composed of the characters “yū” meaning “friend” and “jin” meaning “person”, indicating that it is a person who has a relationship of respectful friendship. This word does not have the same emotional intensity as “shin-yuu”, but it still indicates a positive and friendly relationship.
Gokiburi (ゴキブリ)
Although this word is not commonly used, it is a funny way of referring to a close friend in Japanese. The word “gokiburi” means cockroach, but it is used as a term of affection between close friends.
This word is usually used in a humorous context and can be used to indicate a close relationship despite differences between people.
The use of “gokiburi” can be understood as a way of showing that, even if the friend has a defect or something that can be considered negative, he is still loved and valued. It is a way of indicating that friendship is strong enough to overcome differences and imperfections.
Other ways to say Friend in Japanese
In addition to the words that have already been mentioned (tomodachi, nakama, shin-yuu, gokiburi, and yūjin), there are other Japanese words that can be used to describe different types of friendship:
Mikata (味方)
“Mikata” (味方) is a word meaning “ally” or “supporter”. While this word is not exclusively used to describe friendships, it can be used to describe someone who is there for you and supports you in difficult situations.
Senpai/Kohai (先輩/後輩)
“Senpai” (先輩) is a word used to describe a colleague or friend who is at a higher level of experience, age, or hierarchy in a certain area, such as at work or at a sports club.
On the other hand, “kohai” (後輩) is used to describe a colleague or friend who is at a lower level of experience, age or hierarchy. These words are often used in group contexts to indicate mentor-mentee or leadership relationships.
We recommend reading: Senpai and Kouhai — What is the meaning and the relationship between them?
Otomodachi (お友達)
“Otomodachi” (お友達) is a more polite and respectful way of saying “tomodachi”. It is often used by children or adults who want to be more polite or formal.
Shinpai-shina yūjin (心配性な友人)
“Shinpai-shina yūjin” (心配性な友人) is an expression that means “concerned friend”. It is used to describe a friend who cares a lot about others and is always there for them emotionally.
Kizuna (絆)
“Kizuna” (絆) is a word that means “tie” or “bond”. While not a word exclusively to describe friendship, it is often used to describe the emotional connection and trust between close friends.
Teinei na tomodachi (丁寧な友達)
“Teinei na tomodachi” (丁寧な友達) is an expression that means “polite friend” or “courteous friend”. It is used to describe someone who is very respectful and considerate in their dealings with others.
Raifu tomodachi (ライフ友達)
“Raifu tomodachi” (ライフ友達) is an expression that means “friend for life”. It is used to describe a friend who is very close and who is expected to be around for a lifetime.
Kazoku no hito (家族の人)
While not a common word for «friend», «kazoku no hito» (家族の人) is an expression used to describe a friend who is so close that he is considered part of the family. The expression “kazoku no hito” means “one of the family” and is used to indicate an extremely close and lasting relationship.
Conclusion
There are several words in Japanese that can be used to describe different types of friendship. Each of these words has its own nuance and is used in different contexts and situations. It is important to remember that choosing the right word depends on the context and the relationship you have with the other person.
It’s no secret that friendship plays an important role in all cultures, but in Japan, it is on a whole other level of importance. You can take a closer look at this idea by understanding the many ways the people of Japan refer to their friends.
From the endearing «Tomodachi» to the more formal and respectful «Yuujin,» there are so many beautiful words for «friend» in Japanese.
It’s been said that each word has a meaning and context behind it; when used correctly, it conveys feelings of warmth, love, and special connection.
So if you hope to better understand Japan and its culture, these 14 ways of saying ‘friend’ will bring you one step closer.
Tomodachi (友達)
«Tomodachi» is an invaluable word in the Japanese language, often translating to «friend» or «companion». It reminds us of the warm memories we share with our closest friends, family members, and lovers.
This beautiful word invokes feelings of love, joy, and comfort, reflecting the Japanese culture’s deep appreciation for friendship. 友達 (Tomodachi) is a universal term that can be used in various contexts to describe those cherished special people in our lives.
Here are some examples of how 友達 (Tomodachi) can be used in Japanese:
彼女は私の友達です.
(Kanojo wa watashi no tomodachi desu.)
She is my friend.
私の友達は日本人です.
(Watashi no tomodachi wa nihonjin desu.)
My friend is Japanese.
私は彼の友達と一緒に過ごします.
(Watashi wa kare no tomodachi to issho ni sugoshimasu.)
I spend time with his friend.
Yuujin (友人)
The Japanese word «Yuujin» describes a more formal relationship than the regular Tomodachi. It translates to «friend» in English, but usually refers to someone more distant, such as an acquaintance or colleague.
This allows individuals to be polite and respectful while speaking with people in both social and professional situations. It’s a great way of setting the tone when introducing yourself or others in a formal environment.
Learning this term can help enrich your knowledge of proper etiquette in the Japanese language and be beneficial for any situation that calls for politeness and respect.
Examples of sentences using the word Yuujin (友人) include:
私の友人は私に良いアドバイスを与えてくれます.
(Watashi no yūjin wa watashi ni yoi adobaisu o ataete kuremasu.)
My friend gives me good advice.
友人と一緒に過ごす時間は最高です.
(Yūjin to issho ni sugosu jikan wa saikō desu.)
Spending time with friends is the best.
私の友人は私を支えてくれます.
(Watashi no yūjin wa watashi o sasaete kuremasu.)
My friends support me.
Shinyuu (親友)
The term «Shinyuu» is a special one in the Japanese language, representing a bond that goes beyond the level of friendship; it gives meaning to a relationship with a deep sense of trust and understanding.
It’s used to describe someone more than just your best friend, but rather your closest confidant, who knows you inside and out and can be entirely trusted with anything you may have to say.
Coming across this unique word can be incredibly meaningful for those living in Japan or engaging in Japanese culture.
Examples of sentences using the word Shinyuu (親友) include:
私の親友は私の秘密を守ってくれます.
(Watashi no shinyū wa watashi no himitsu o mamotte kuremasu.)
My best friend keeps my secrets.
親友と一緒に旅行するのは最高です.
(Shinyū to issho ni ryokō suru no wa saikō desu.)
Traveling with my best friend is the best.
親友は私の人生で最も重要な人です.
(Shinyū wa watashi no jinsei de mottomo jūyō na hito desu.)
My best friend is the most important person in my life.
Daishinyuu (大親友)
«Daishinyuu» is an even more powerful term that goes beyond Shinyuu and actually translates to «closest of friends.» This term is usually used for very special relationships cultivated over many years and signifies a strong bond that can withstand any challenge life throws at it.
In Japan, the term Daishinyuu can represent relationships that span decades and generations, connecting people of all ages and backgrounds. It’s a way to communicate the level of admiration, respect, and devotion we have for those who play an important part in our lives.
Examples of sentences using Daishinyuu (大親友) include:
私の大親友は私と一緒に毎日過ごします.
(Watashi no daishinyū wa watashi to issho ni mainichi sugoshimasu.)
My closest friend and I spend every day together.
大親友との約束は常に守られます.
(Daishinyū to no yakusoku wa tsune ni mamoraremasu.)
Promises with my closest friend are always kept.
私の大親友は私の人生で最も信頼できる人です.
(Watashi no daishinyū wa watashi no jinsei de mottomo shinrai dekiru hito desu.)
My closest friend is the most trustworthy person in my life.
Nakama (仲間)
The term «Nakama» is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and is used when expressing strong connections between people. It means «comrade» or «companion.» It is often used to refer to someone who is a close friend, colleague, or even family member.
People who share common experiences or interests might refer to each other as «Nakama,» signifying the level of trust and understanding they have for one another.
This concept is like having a second family — those close enough to be just like family but isn’t necessarily blood-related.
Examples of sentences using Nakama (仲間) include:
私たちは一緒に働く仲間です.
(Watashitachi wa issho ni hataraku nakama desu.)
We are working together as comrades.
スポーツチームの仲間は私をサポートしてくれます.
(Supōtsu chīmu no Nakama wa watashi o sapōto shite kuremasu.)
My teammates in sports team support me.
仲間と一緒に過ごす時間は最高です.
(Nakama to issho ni sugosu jikan wa saikō desu.)
Spending time with comrades is the best.
Mikata (味方)
In Japan, «Mikata» is widely used to show appreciation when someone stands by you in difficult times or even lends a helping hand in a pinch. It can refer to a close friend, ally, or confidant and can also be used in business settings.
Whether it’s simply being someone you can talk to or providing aid in your hour of need, «Mikata» truly embodies the inseparable bond between two people.
It also serves as an expression of thankfulness — for staying faithful to the relationship and remaining a loyal ally of justice.
So next time you encounter a friend you feel especially grateful for, take some time to tell them how much their loyalty means to you with this meaningful Japanese word.
Examples of sentences using Mikata (味方) include:
私たちは同じ目標を持って味方です.
(Watashitachi wa onaji mokutekou wo motte mikata desu.)
We are allies with the same goal.
彼は私の味方であり、サポーターです.
(Kare wa watashi no mikata de ari, sapōtā desu.)
He is my ally and supporter.
私たちは味方であり、パートナーです.
(Watashitachi wa mikata de ari, pātonā desu.)
We are allies and partners.
Aibou (相棒)
The word «Aibou» is another way to express strong friendship in Japanese.
It literally translates to «partnered friendship,» implying a relationship between two people who are so closely connected, they can be considered a single entity.
«Aibou» is often used to refer to two people with complementary mindsets, as if they are two parts of one whole. They may enjoy participating in activities together and rely on each other for support and advice.
Examples of sentences using Aibou (相棒) include:
私の相棒は私をサポートしてくれます.
(Watashi no aibō wa watashi o sapōto shite kuremasu.)
My partner supports me.
相棒と一緒に仕事をするのは楽しいです.
(Aibō to issho ni shigoto o suru no wa tanoshī desu.)
Working with a partner is fun.
相棒は私の長所を補ってくれます.
(Aibō wa Watashi no chōsho o kotte kuremasu.)
My partner complements my strengths.
Douryou (同僚)
The phrase «Douryou» encapsulates the idea that even if two working colleagues don’t call each other friends, they should still respect and support one another.
This type of atmosphere is vital in a professional environment. After all, an individual or group can only succeed if everyone is pulling in the same direction.
The word «Douryou» can therefore be used to describe any relationship between two people who work together and strive to support each other.
Examples of sentences using Douryou (同僚) include:
私の同僚たちは仕事で協力してくれます.
(Watashi no dōryō-tachi wa shigoto de kyōryoku shite kuremasu.)
«My colleagues help me out with work.»
同僚と一緒に働くことは楽しいです.
(Dōryō to issho ni hataraku koto wa tanoshī desu)
Working with colleagues is fun.
私の同僚は私の能力を引き出してくれます.
(Watashi no dōryō wa watashi no nōryoku o hikidashite kuremasu)
My colleagues bring out my abilities.
Doukyuusei (同級生)
«Doukyuusei» is the term used to describe a classmate who’s grown extremely close over the course of their school years. This type of bond is often much deeper than a regular friend, as it’s based on consistent interaction, mutual support, and understanding.
«Doukyuusei» is someone you can rely on, no matter the situation. They may be the person you turn to when you need a listening ear or who helps motivate you when times are tough.
Examples of sentences using Doukyuusei (同級生) include:
私たちは同級生であり、友達です.
(Watashitachi wa doukyuusei de ari, tomodachi desu.)
We are classmates and friends.
同級生と一緒に学校に行くのは楽しいです.
(Doukyuusei to issho ni gakkō ni iku no wa tanoshī desu)
Going to school with classmates is fun.
同級生と一緒に卒業するのは嬉しいです.
(Doukyuusei to issho ni sotsugyō suru no wa ureshī desu)
Graduating with classmates is happy.
Meiyu (盟友)
«Meiyu» is the ally we all wish for in life. They are trustworthy and reliable, steadfastly supporting you no matter what. You can be confident that they have your best interest at heart and understand your perspective like no other.
With «Meiyu», you know that someone will advocate for you and guide you through whatever challenges come your way.
Examples of sentences using Meiyu (盟友) include:
私の盟友は私を支えてくれます.
(Watashi no meiyū wa watashi o sasaete kuremasu.)
My ally supports me.
私の盟友はいつも安心していられます
(Watashi no meiyū wa itsumo anshin shite iraremasu)
I can always rely on my ally.
私の盟友は私の思いを理解してくれます.
(Watashi no meiyū wa watashi no omoi o rikai shite kuremasu.)
My ally understands my thoughts.
Tsure ( 連れ)
The term «Tsure» is a powerful word, conveying a sense of companionship between two people beyond simple friendship. It’s based on mutual trust and respect, where two people rely on each other for their actions and decisions.
This means they are always there for one another, no matter what, thus building a powerful bond between them.
In many cases, these two individuals can’t be separated; they’ve formed an inseparable connection that shows itself in everyday life.
Examples of sentences using Tsure (連れ) include:
私の連れはいつも一緒にいられます.
(Watashi no tsure wa itsumo issho ni iraremasu.)
My companion is always with me.
私の連れは私を守ってくれます.
(Watashi no tsure wa watashi o mamotte kuremasu.)
My companion protects me.
私の連れは私の気持ちを理解してくれます.
(Watashi no tsure wa watashi no kimochi o rikai shite kuremasu)
My companion understands my feelings.
Badii (バディー)
«Badii» is a convenient way to refer to someone you’re close with in Japanese. Pronounced «baddee,» the word roughly translates to «buddy» or «pal.»
It implies a much friendlier relationship than formal words like 友達 (tomodachi) or 同僚 (dōryō). It is most commonly used between friends, family members, teammates, or any other group where people share a strong bond.
This relationship is often quite warm and comfortable, with each person looking out for the other.
Examples of sentences using Badii (バディー) include:
私のバディーは最高の友達です.
(Watashi no badī wa saikō no tomodachi desu.)
My buddy is the best friend.
私のバディーはいつも僕を励ましてくれる.
(Watashi no badī wa itsumo boku o hagemashite kureru.
My buddy always encourages me.
バディーと一緒に過ごす時間は最高です. (Badī to issho ni sugosu jikan wa saikō desu.
Spending time with my buddy is the best.
Osananajimi (幼馴染)
«Osananajimi» is a special relationship often found in manga, anime, and other forms of Japanese media. Literally translated as «childhood friend,» it refers to two people who have known each other since childhood and have a close bond.
Though often romantic in nature, this relationship is about far more than physical attraction. It’s rooted in a deep understanding of one another and shared experiences and memories.
«Osananajimi» relationships are especially powerful because they often last for a very long time – sometimes even for life.
This is what makes them so special; the two people involved have been through thick and thin together, and this creates a powerful bond of loyalty, mutual understanding, and unconditional support.
Examples of sentences using Osananajimi (幼馴染) include:
私の幼なじみはいつも私のことをよく理解しています.
(Watashi no osananajimi wa itsumo watashi no koto o yoku rikai shite imasu.)
My childhood friend always understands me well.
幼馴染と一緒に過ごす時間は思い出に残ります.
(Osananajimi to issho ni sugosu jikan wa omoide ni nokorimasu.)
The time spent with my childhood friend remains in my memory.
幼馴染との再会は嬉しいです
(Osananajimi to no saikai wa ureshī desu.)
Reuniting with my childhood friend is joyful.
Shiriai (知り合い)
«Shiriai» is a term for someone you know in Japanese. The word is often translated as «acquaintance,» but in reality, it can be used to refer to anyone you’ve met and have a relationship with.
This could be a colleague, classmate, neighbor, relative – even someone you just had a brief conversation with. What matters is that the two of you have shared some interaction and have a connection, however small it might be.
«Shiriai» relationships usually don’t involve deep feelings or loyalty, but it’s important to remember that they still carry value.
Examples of sentences using Shiriai (知り合い) include:
私の知り合いはいつも私を助けてくれます.
(Watashi no shiriai wa itsumo watashi o tasukete kuremasu.)
My acquaintance always helps me.
私の知り合いは有益な情報をくれます.
(Watashi no shiriai wa yūyoku na jōhō o kuremasu.)
My acquaintance gives me useful information.
私の知り合いは新しいアイデアをくれます.
(Watashi no shiriai wa atarashii aidea o kuremasu.)
My acquaintance gives me new ideas.
Final Thoughts
No matter whether you’re talking about Badii (バディー), Osananajimi (幼馴染), or Shiriai (知り合い), all three of these relationships are important and can offer us valuable experiences. So don’t forget: appreciate and cherish the relationships you have!
The bonds we share with others are powerful and can give us much-needed support, guidance, and inspiration. In the end, our relationships are a reflection of who we are – so make sure to nurture them and keep them strong!