Pronouns

Please note that in the examples below, the topic has been omitted and indicated with parenthesis. We will cover topics under は (ha/wa)

Japanese Pronouns Overview
Mostly the same as English
Many ways to say “I” and “you”
“You” general not used

Common Pronouns

• わたし(watashi) – I (formal, used by men and women in formal settings, women in less formal situations)
• ぼく (boku) – I (boyish, can be used by male and female)
• あたし (atashi) – I (cutesy, childish, and a little cringe)
• かれ(kare) – He/Him
• 彼女 (kanojo) – She/Her
• わたしたち (watashi tachi) – Us/We

The it/that pronouns are covered on the あ・そ・こ page, but you don’t need to know them for now.

You

“You” in Japanese is usually rude. Most of the time, you should omit it. It’s generally obvious who you are talking to; However, if you must say “you”, use the person’s name. If you don’t know their name or you for some reason really want to use you, here are your basic options. But you shouldn’t use them. 

• きみ (kimi) – You. Someone socially higher to someone lower. Think adults to children.
• あなた (anata) – You (“dear”) varies a bit by region, but generally husband-wife. Losing popularity. 
• おまえ (omae) – YOU. (“Hey you!”). Like suddenly pointing at someone in a culture that doesn’t point.