Discover how the Japanese language creatively borrows and transforms words from around the world – and how you already know more Japanese than you think!

Ever heard a Japanese person say "aisukurīmu" or "konpyuutaa"? Surprise — you just understood Japanese! That’s the magic of loanwords, or gairaigo — foreign words adopted into Japanese, often with a charming twist in pronunciation. From tech terms to trendy slang, these words make Japanese more global, modern, and seriously fun to learn!

At The Language SKOOL (TLS), we love showing our students how languages aren't just textbooks — they’re cultural mashups. And Japanese? It’s got one of the coolest blends out there.

What Are Japanese Loanwords?

Loanwords (外来語 – gairaigo) are words borrowed from other languages, mainly English, but also from Portuguese, German, French, and more. They’re typically written in katakana, one of the three Japanese scripts. Unlike translations, loanwords are phonetically adapted — giving them a distinct Japanese flavor.

Think of them as little souvenirs Japan picked up from different parts of the world!

Popular English Words Used in Japanese

Here’s where things get fun. Check out how some everyday English words have taken on a Japanese twist:

Fun fact: The word “salaryman” (サラリーマン – sararīman) doesn’t even exist in English, but Japan created it from “salary” + “man” to describe a typical office worker.

Beyond English: Multicultural Influences

Japanese hasn’t just borrowed from English — it's been collecting words for centuries!

• Portuguese: pan (パン) – bread

• German: arubaito (アルバイト) – part-time job

• French: byōin (ビオイン) – beauty salon (from beau + institut)

• Dutch: biiru (ビール) – beer
  
  

Every loanword tells a story of trade, travel, and cultural exchange — pretty awesome, right?

Why Are Loanwords So Popular in Japanese?

Japanese culture thrives on blending tradition with trend. Loanwords help express modern concepts, tech innovations, global fashion, and more — especially when there’s no traditional Japanese equivalent.

Plus, using loanwords often sounds cool, trendy, or even elite in Japan — just like using foreign phrases in English sometimes does.

Learn Japanese the Fun Way – with TLS!

At The Language SKOOL, we believe in learning that’s practical, cultural, and full of “aha!” moments. When you sign up for a Japanese language course with TLS, you’ll realize that you already know dozens of words — you just didn’t know they were Japanese yet!

Whether you're ordering aisukurīmu in Tokyo or spotting sumaho in your favorite anime, these little words make learning smoother and more relatable.

Final Thought: You're Already Speaking Japanese!

So the next time you say “coffee” or “computer”, smile — you’re speaking Japanese… kinda.

And if you're ready to upgrade from knowing just sararīman to mastering full conversations, TLS is here to guide you — one fun word at a time!