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🔀 Wasei-Eigo

Mansion, Salaryman, Consent—the uniquely Japanese take on English words that will confuse any native speaker.

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3 Deep picks
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Going Deeper — Wasei-Eigo Edition

Niche, obsessive, excellent.

DEEP
Deep / language/wasei-eigo

Claim: Why Japan's Insurance Word Has Nothing to Do With Complaining

In English, a 'claim' is a neutral assertion of right. In Japan, it became the go-to word for angry…

DEEP
Deep / language/wasei-eigo

High Tension: Why the Most Energetic English Phrase in Japan Has Nothing to Do With Electricity

In English, 'high tension' means stress, anxiety, or dangerous voltage. In Japan, it means you're t…

DEEP
Deep / language/wasei-eigo

High Tension: Why Japan's Favorite Compliment Means Nothing in English

In English, 'high tension' conjures taut wires and existential dread. In Japan, it's the highest co…

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