Language is always evolving, and Japanese is no exception. From TikTok trends to anime fandoms, new slang words appear every year while older ones fade away. If you want to sound more natural and understand what young people in Japan are really saying in 2025, this updated slang list is for you!
Why Learn Japanese Slang?
Slang is more than just “casual words.” It reflects the culture, humor, and creativity of native speakers. Mastering slang can help you connect with Japanese friends on a deeper level and understand social media conversations better.
Top 10 Japanese Slang Words in 2025
1. エモい (Emoi)
Originally from the word “emotional,” emoi describes something moving, touching, or nostalgic. Still popular in 2025.
<Example>
A: 卒業以来10年ぶりにこの学校に来るね。
(It’s been 10 years since graduation—we are finally back at this school.)
B: なんかエモいね…！
(Wow, that’s so emoi…!)
2. ガチ勢 (Gachi-zei)
Refers to hardcore fans or players who take something very seriously.
<Example>
A: 彼、カードゲームの大会に毎回出てるらしいよ。
(He apparently joins every card game tournament.)
B: うわ、それはガチ勢だね。
(Whoa, he’s such a gachi-zei.)
3. エグい (Egui)
Means extreme, crazy, or intense. Can be both positive and negative.
<Example>
A: 今回の学力テスト、全部満点だったわ。
(I got a perfect score on every subject in this exam.)
B: まじで？エグい！
(Seriously? That’s egui!)
4. チル (Chiru)
Borrowed from English “chill,” it means to relax or hang out.
<Example>
A: 今日疲れたし、どこかでゆっくりしない？
(I’m tired today, want to just relax somewhere?)
B: いいね、カフェでチルしよ。
(Sounds good, let’s chiru at a café.)
5. バズる (Bazuru)
To go viral, especially on social media. Still a buzzword in 2025.
<Example>
A: このダンス動画、めっちゃ再生されてる！
(This dance video is getting so many views!)
B: 完全にバズってるじゃん！
(It’s totally bazu!)
6. きまZ (Kimazui → Kimazē)
A playful, shortened slang for “awkward situation.”
<Example>
A: え、二人とも全く同じ服着てる…。
(Oh no, we’re wearing exactly the same outfit…)
B: うわ、きまZ…。
(Ugh, that’s so kimazē…)
7. 限界オタク (Genkai Otaku)
Literally “limit otaku,” describes a hardcore fan who expresses over-the-top passion for their favorite idol, anime, or game.
<Example>
A: 推しがステージに出てきた瞬間、あの子大声で泣いてたよ。
(The moment her idol came on stage, she started crying so loudly.)
B: 完全に限界オタクじゃん。
(That’s totally a genkai otaku.)
8. それな (Sorena)
Equivalent to “Exactly!” or “I know, right?” Often used in agreement during conversations.
<Example>
A: 最近、暑すぎて外出たくないよ…。
(Lately it’s so hot, I don’t even want to go outside…)
B: それな…！
(Sorena…! / Exactly…!)
9. 無理ゲー (Murige)
Short for “impossible game,” used to describe a hopeless or impossible situation.
<Example>
A: 明日はレポートを5つも提出しなきゃいけない…。
(I have to turn in five reports tomorrow…)
B: それは完全に無理ゲーでしょ…。
(That’s totally a murige…)
10. 尊い (Toutoi)
Means “precious” or “sacred,” often used by fans to describe adorable or heartwarming moments.
<Example>
A: あの二人の友情、本当に素敵だよね。
(Their friendship is really beautiful, isn’t it?)
B: 尊い…。
(It’s so toutoi…)
How Slang Has Changed Since 2023
Some words like emoi and bazuru remain strong, while others fade. New playful variations like kimazē show how social media continues to shape the way young Japanese people communicate.
Conclusion
Japanese slang evolves quickly, but learning it can make your conversations more fun and natural. Whether you’re following anime, J-pop, or just chatting with friends, sprinkling in a few slang words will help you connect like a native in 2025.
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