San Meaning in Japanese: Usage, Examples & Common Mistakes
What does san mean in Japanese? Learn how to use this honorific with names, how it differs from kun and chan, and the common mistakes to avoid.
Japanese Honorifics
San, chan, kun, sama, senpai, sensei — how Japanese honorifics actually work in real life, explained by a native speaker.
Sensei Meaning in Japanese: Teachers, Doctors & More
Sensei means more than teacher. Learn who gets called sensei in Japan, how to use the title with or without a name, and when it can sound sarcastic.
What Does “Sama” (様) Mean in Japanese? A Native Explains
“Sama” is more than “very polite san.” A native Japanese speaker explains how -sama really works — for customers, gods, letters, and why it sounds sarcastic in conversation.
What Does “Onii-chan” Mean? Nii-san, Aniki & the Real Truth
A native explains what “onii-chan” really means, the whole big-brother family (nii-san, aniki, onii-san), and how anime’s version differs from how Japanese people actually say it.
Japanese Honorifics: How We Actually Use San, Kun, and Chan (A Native’s Guide)
A native Japanese speaker explains how honorifics really work — san, kun, chan, senpai, sama — including the rules textbooks never teach you.
What Does “Kun” (くん) Really Mean in Japanese?
“Kun” isn’t just “for boys.” A native Japanese speaker explains what -kun actually means, why bosses use it for women, and when it sounds wrong.