Katakana

usgb/ˌkætəˈkɑnə/
Noun

A syllabary used in the Japanese writing system, primarily for transcribing foreign words and names.

The word 'coffee' is often written in katakana as コーヒー.
Visual representation of "katakana" - A syllabary used in the Japanese writing system, primarily for transcribing foreign words and names.

Often appears as...

  • カタカナ語
  • 外来語

Usage tips

Neutral

loanwords, Japanese writing, syllabary

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "katakana"
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Contextual Use

Katakana is often used in Japanese to clarify foreign terms or emphasize certain words.

Illustration for Contextual Use
The term 'computer' written as コンピュータ is an example.
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Cultural Significance

Knowing katakana is crucial for understanding modern Japanese culture, as many borrowed words are prevalent.

Illustration for Cultural Significance
For instance, many food names like ピザ (pizza) are in katakana.
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Common Confusion

Learners sometimes confuse katakana with hiragana, but each has specific usage roles in written Japanese.

Illustration for Common Confusion
Remember, katakana is for foreign words and technical terms.
Visual representation of the word "Katakana"

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