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First and Second Person Pronouns Posted by on Mar 19, 2010 in Grammar

In Japanese, first and second pronouns are frequently omitted, but just for review, here are some of the most common first and second person pronouns : (Note: because of the complexity of the Japanese language, i.e. politeness, gender, context etc. not all of the possible pronouns are listed below. However, this is a pretty comprehensive list)

わたし/ = I (formal). Can be used by males and females.

おれ/ = I (informal). Mostly used by males. Depending on the situation, may be crude to use. Considered overly masculine.

ぼく/ = I (informal). Mostly used by males. When used by females, it gives off a tomboyish impression.

あたし = I (informal). Mostly used by girls in conversation, but not in written communication. When males use it, it might give an impression of effeminateness.

Referring to oneself in the third person by using one’s own name = (informal) is sometimes used by children and young women as a way to sound cute when talking about oneself.  

おいら = I (informal). Used by males, but rarely used because of the stereotype associated with being a country bumpkin.

あなた = singular you. Formality depends on the situation. May be used by married women as a way to address their husbands. Similar to the word “dear” or “honey”.

あんた = singular you (informal). Considered rude.

おまえ/お前 = singular you (informal). Used mostly by men. Avoid using this to superiors/seniors.

てめい = singuar you (informal). Mostly used by males; especially in a confrontational manner just before a fight.

きさま/貴様 = singular you (informal). Mostly used by males, especially when angry.

きみ/ = singular you (informal). It’s rude with superiors, but can be an affectionate term with friends.

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Comments:

  1. roffe:

    わたくし could be up there too.. but it’s hardly ever used

    and concerning what is rude/improper language, I’ve got the impression that, in order to avoid being rude, one should use as few personal pronouns as possible 😉