Unlocking the History of English Loanwords in Japanese

By Ethan

May 13, 2025

In Linguistics

Unlocking the History of English Loanwords in Japanese

The Japanese language, celebrated for its unique writing system and rich cultural heritage, possesses a fascinating, often overlooked characteristic: a significant incorporation of words borrowed from other languages, particularly English. This influx of foreign vocabulary, known as gairaigo, offers a compelling window into the historical and cultural exchanges between Japan and the West. In this article, we'll delve into the captivating history of English language loanwords in Japanese, exploring their origins, evolution, and enduring impact on the language.

The Early Encounters: Seeds of English Influence in Japan

The story of English loanwords in Japanese begins in the late 19th century, a period of profound transformation for Japan. After centuries of self-imposed isolation, the Meiji Restoration in 1868 ushered in an era of rapid modernization and Westernization. Eager to catch up with the industrialized nations of the West, Japan actively sought knowledge and technology from abroad. This involved sending students and scholars overseas and inviting foreign experts to Japan.

English, as the dominant language of international commerce and technology at the time, naturally became a primary source of new vocabulary. Words related to science, technology, and business were among the first to be adopted. Terms like erekiteru (electricity), derived from