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A1 noun #1,500 le plus courant 14 min de lecture

おかね

okane Top 1,500

At the A1 level, 'Okane' is introduced as a basic noun essential for survival. Learners focus on identifying the word and using it in simple 'existence' sentences. The primary goal is to understand that 'Okane' means money and to be able to say whether they have it or not using 'ga arimasu' or 'ga arimasen'. At this stage, learners also begin to associate 'Okane' with the Japanese currency, the Yen (En), and learn to ask for the price of simple items using 'Ikura desu ka?'. The focus is on immediate needs: buying food, paying for transport, and recognizing the word in a shop setting. Politeness is introduced through the mandatory use of the 'o' prefix, ensuring the learner sounds respectful from day one. Complex financial concepts are avoided, and the word is treated as a concrete object rather than an abstract economic force. Exercises at this level involve matching the word to pictures of coins and bills and completing basic sentences about daily purchases.

At the A2 level, the use of 'Okane' expands to include basic actions and transactions. Learners begin to use verbs like 'tsukau' (spend), 'harau' (pay), and 'morau' (receive). They learn to describe their spending habits in simple terms, such as 'Okane o takusan tsukaimashita' (I spent a lot of money). The concept of 'cost' is introduced with the verb 'kakaru', allowing learners to discuss the price of hobbies, travel, and services. A2 learners also start to distinguish between 'Okane' and 'Genkin' (cash), which is crucial for navigating Japan's mix of cash-heavy and digital payment systems. They can follow simple instructions at an ATM and understand basic financial requests. The social aspect of money, such as 'O-kozukai' (allowance), is also introduced, providing a glimpse into Japanese daily life and family structures. Exercises focus on sentence construction and short dialogues in shopping or banking scenarios.

By the B1 level, learners use 'Okane' to discuss more abstract concepts like budgeting, saving, and financial planning. They move beyond simple transactions to describe processes, such as 'Okane o tameru' (saving money) for a specific goal like a car or a trip. The vocabulary expands to include 'yosan' (budget) and 'shishutsu' (expenses). B1 learners can explain their financial situation in more detail, using conjunctions to link ideas, such as 'Okane ga nai node, kaimono o hikaemasu' (Because I don't have money, I will hold back on shopping). They also begin to understand idiomatic expressions and the cultural nuances of gift-giving (e.g., 'Otoshidama'). At this stage, the learner can participate in discussions about the cost of living and compare prices between different regions or countries. Exercises involve reading short articles about personal finance and writing about their own financial goals and habits.

At the B2 level, 'Okane' is discussed within the context of the broader economy and society. Learners can understand and participate in debates about taxes, inflation, and the job market. They use more formal synonyms like 'shikin' (funds) and 'tsuka' (currency) appropriately. The grammar becomes more complex, allowing for hypothetical scenarios: 'Moshi okane ga takusan attara, nani o shimasu ka?' (If you had a lot of money, what would you do?). B2 learners can understand news reports about the 'En-yasu' (weak yen) or 'En-daka' (strong yen) and how it affects the Japanese economy. They are also aware of the register shifts required when talking about money in a professional business environment versus a casual setting. Cultural literacy increases as they learn about the history of Japanese currency and the significance of the figures on the banknotes. Exercises include listening to economic news and summarizing complex financial arguments.

At the C1 level, learners possess a nuanced understanding of 'Okane' and its role in Japanese culture, literature, and philosophy. They can discuss the psychological impact of wealth and poverty and analyze how money is portrayed in Japanese media. Their vocabulary is extensive, including terms like 'zaisei-seisaku' (fiscal policy) and 'kin'yu-kanwa' (monetary easing). C1 learners can navigate complex legal and financial documents, such as contracts or investment prospectuses. They understand the subtle social cues involved in discussing money, knowing when to be direct and when to use euphemisms to maintain 'wa' (harmony). They can appreciate and use sophisticated idioms and proverbs related to wealth. At this level, the learner can lead discussions on economic theory or provide detailed financial advice in Japanese. Exercises involve analyzing academic texts on economics and participating in high-level debates on social welfare and wealth distribution.

At the C2 level, the learner's mastery of 'Okane' is indistinguishable from that of an educated native speaker. They can engage in deep philosophical discourse on the nature of value and the evolution of currency in the digital age. They are comfortable with archaic or highly specialized financial terminology found in historical texts or specialized legal codes. C2 learners can write persuasive essays on economic reform and critique government financial reports with precision. They have a perfect grasp of the honorific system (keigo) as it applies to financial transactions in the most formal settings, such as high-level banking or diplomatic negotiations. They can interpret the subtle emotional undertones in literature where money is a central theme, such as the works of Natsume Soseki. Their understanding of 'Okane' is not just linguistic but deeply integrated into a comprehensive knowledge of Japanese history, society, and global economic relations. Exercises involve translating complex financial treatises and delivering keynote speeches on economic topics.

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

おかね en 30 secondes

Okane is the essential Japanese word for money, combining the honorific 'o' with 'kane' (gold/metal) to denote value and respect in daily transactions.
It is a versatile noun used for cash, savings, and costs, typically requiring the particle 'ga' for existence or 'o' for actions like spending.
Culturally, 'Okane' is treated with care in Japan; dropping the 'o' prefix can sound unrefined or aggressive in most social contexts.
Key verbs to pair with Okane include 'harau' (pay), 'tameru' (save), 'tsukau' (spend), and 'orosu' (withdraw from an ATM).

The word おかね (Okane) is the fundamental Japanese term for 'money'. Structurally, it consists of the honorific prefix 'o' (お) and the root noun 'kane' (金), which literally translates to 'gold' or 'metal'. In Japanese culture, the addition of the honorific 'o' is almost mandatory in daily conversation, reflecting a deep-seated respect for the medium of exchange and its role in sustaining life and society. Historically, before the introduction of standardized coinage, wealth was often measured in rice (koku) or precious metals, which explains why the character for gold became synonymous with money itself. When you use this word, you are referring to currency in all its forms: coins, banknotes, and digital balances. It is a noun that sits at the heart of survival, commerce, and social status. In a broader sense, it represents value. Without 'okane', the intricate web of Japanese convenience stores, high-speed trains, and world-class restaurants would cease to function. It is one of the first words any learner of Japanese must master, as it is essential for the most basic survival tasks, such as buying a bottle of water or paying for a train ticket. The word carries a weight of responsibility and necessity, yet in polite society, it is often discussed with a degree of indirectness to maintain social harmony.

Etymological Root: Derived from the Kanji '金' (Kin/Kane), representing metal or gold, signifying intrinsic value.

いま、おかねをもっていません。(I don't have any money right now.)

Understanding 'okane' requires looking beyond the physical coins. It encompasses the concept of 'funds' or 'wealth'. In academic or formal settings, you might encounter the word 'kin'yu' (finance) or 'tsuka' (currency), but in the streets of Tokyo or the markets of Osaka, 'okane' is the undisputed king of terminology. The 'o' prefix is not just a grammatical flourish; it is a linguistic marker of the importance of the object. While you can technically say 'kane', doing so often sounds rough, masculine, or even aggressive, similar to saying 'cash' or 'dough' in a gritty context in English. For learners, sticking to 'okane' ensures you remain polite and socially appropriate in 99% of situations. Whether you are discussing the price of a luxury watch in Ginza or the cost of a bowl of ramen in a hidden alleyway, 'okane' is the bridge between your needs and their fulfillment. It is the lifeblood of the Japanese economy, a system that prides itself on precision and honesty, where finding a lost wallet often results in its return with every single yen intact.

Semantic Range: Covers cash, bank balances, wealth, and the general concept of financial resources.

おかねをためるのがすきです。(I like saving money.)

Furthermore, the word is used in various idiomatic expressions that reflect the Japanese worldview. To 'have money' (okane ga aru) is the standard way to describe being wealthy or simply having the means at that moment. To 'spend money' (okane o tsukau) is a daily activity. The nuances of how 'okane' is handled—from the way it is placed on a small tray (tsuri-trei) at a cash register rather than handed directly to a person, to the use of special envelopes (shibukuro) for gifting money—all revolve around this single word. It is not just a noun; it is a cultural artifact. By learning 'okane', you are not just learning a translation; you are gaining insight into the Japanese respect for value, the meticulous nature of their transactions, and the linguistic ways they soften the blunt reality of financial exchange. It is the starting point for all economic interaction in Japan.

りょこうにはたくさんおかねがかかります。(Travel costs a lot of money.)

Usage Note: Always use the 'O' prefix in polite conversation to avoid sounding unrefined or overly blunt.

おかねをはらってください。(Please pay the money.)

かれはおかねもちです。(He is a rich person / 'money-holder'.)

Using おかね (Okane) correctly involves understanding its grammatical placement and the verbs it typically pairs with. As a noun, it functions as the subject or object of a sentence. For instance, when you want to say you have money, you use the particle 'ga' (が) followed by 'arimasu' (あります): 'Okane ga arimasu'. Conversely, if you are broke, you say 'Okane ga arimasen'. This is the most basic building block of financial communication in Japanese. When you are performing an action on money, such as spending, saving, or earning, you use the object particle 'o' (を). Common verb pairings include 'tsukau' (to use/spend), 'tameru' (to save), 'kasegu' (to earn), and 'harau' (to pay). Each of these combinations is vital for daily life. For example, 'Okane o tsukaisugimashita' means 'I spent too much money', a phrase many travelers find themselves using after a trip to a Japanese department store or an electronics giant like Yodobashi Camera.

Common Verb Pairings: Okane o harau (Pay), Okane o tameru (Save), Okane o orosu (Withdraw from ATM).

ATMでおかねをおろします。(I will withdraw money from the ATM.)

Another crucial aspect is the concept of 'cost'. In English, we say something 'costs' money. In Japanese, we use the verb 'kakaru' (かかる), which means to take or require. So, 'Okane ga kakarimasu' means 'It costs money'. This is a very common way to express that an activity or item is not free. When discussing wealth, the term 'Okane-mochi' (お金持ち) is used. This literally means 'money-holder' and is the standard way to say someone is rich. It is important to note that while 'okane' is the general term, specific types of money have their own names. Cash is 'genkin' (現金), coins are 'kozeni' (小銭), and bills are 'satsu' (札). However, 'okane' remains the umbrella term that covers all of these. If you are at a restaurant and want to ask for the bill, you don't usually say 'okane'; instead, you say 'okaikei' (お会計). Using 'okane' in that context might sound like you are asking for the physical concept of money rather than the settlement of your debt.

Grammatical Structures: [Noun] + には + おかね + が + かかる (Something costs money).

このくるまは、とてもおかねがかかりました。(This car cost a lot of money.)

In more complex sentences, 'okane' can be modified by adjectives or other nouns. 'Takusan no okane' (a lot of money) or 'Sukunai okane' (a little money) are common. You can also use it with the particle 'no' to indicate possession or relationship: 'Okane no mondai' (a problem of money/financial problem). For advanced learners, understanding the nuances of 'okane' involves knowing when *not* to use it. In professional business settings, 'shikin' (funds) or 'yosan' (budget) might be more appropriate. However, for 95% of daily interactions, 'okane' is your go-to word. It is versatile, universally understood, and carries the necessary politeness through its 'o' prefix. Whether you are bargaining (though rare in Japan) or simply checking your balance, 'okane' is the linguistic tool you will use most frequently. Remember to pair it with the correct particles to ensure your meaning is clear and your Japanese sounds natural.

おかねがないので、かいものにいけません。(Since I have no money, I cannot go shopping.)

Politeness Tip: Dropping the 'O' to say 'kane' can sound very rough or like 'street talk'. Always use 'Okane' in polite company.

こどもにおかねのつかいかたをおしえます。(I teach my children how to use money.)

らいげつのために、おかねをのこしておきます。(I will leave/save some money for next month.)

You will encounter おかね (Okane) in almost every corner of Japanese life, from the most mundane transactions to high-stakes business negotiations. The most common place is at the 'reji' (cash register) of a 'konbini' (convenience store) or supermarket. While the staff might use more formal terms like 'o-kaikei' (the bill) or 'o-tsuri' (the change), customers often use 'okane' when checking if they have enough cash or when discussing payment methods. In banks ('ginko'), you will hear it constantly in phrases like 'okane o orosu' (withdraw money) or 'okane o furikomu' (transfer money). The word is also a staple of Japanese television, particularly in news segments discussing the economy, taxes, or the 'yen' (en) exchange rate. In variety shows, celebrities often joke about 'okane', either boasting about their wealth or complaining about being poor, making it a key part of Japanese humor and social commentary.

Daily Life Contexts: Supermarkets, Banks, Family Budgeting, News Reports, and School Lessons about Economics.

ニュースでおかねのニュースをみています。(I am watching news about money on the news.)

In the workplace, 'okane' is used during discussions about salaries ('kyuryo'), bonuses ('bonasu'), and project costs. While 'yosan' (budget) is the formal term, colleagues might casually ask, 'Kono purojekuto, okane wa daijobu?' (Is the money/funding for this project okay?). At home, it is a central topic for families managing their 'kakeibo' (household account book). Parents often talk to their children about 'okane no taisetsusa' (the importance of money) and give them 'otoshidama' (New Year's money) or 'ozukai' (allowance). In these domestic settings, 'okane' is treated with a mix of practicality and moral teaching. You will also hear it in popular music and anime, where characters might express their dreams of becoming 'okane-mochi' (rich) or their struggles with debt. The word is so pervasive that it transcends social boundaries, appearing in the speech of children and the elderly alike.

Professional Contexts: Discussions about salary, expense reports, and general business viability.

しゃちょうはおかねのはなしをしました。(The president talked about money.)

Furthermore, 'okane' is a common theme in Japanese proverbs and idioms. You might hear 'Okane wa tenka no mawari-mono', which means 'Money is a thing that circulates through the world', suggesting that wealth comes and goes and one shouldn't be too obsessed with it. In shopping malls, advertisements often use 'okane' to highlight savings or cashback offers. Even in the digital realm, apps for 'denshi mane' (electronic money) like PayPay or Suica are essentially digital versions of 'okane'. Whether you are listening to a podcast about financial independence or overhearing a conversation at a 'nomikai' (drinking party) about the rising cost of living, 'okane' is the linguistic thread that ties these diverse experiences together. It is a word that everyone knows, everyone needs, and everyone talks about, making it an essential part of the Japanese auditory landscape.

さいふにおかねがはいっていません。(There is no money in my wallet.)

Cultural Nuance: Talking too much about money can be seen as 'iyashii' (greedy/vulgar), so it's often discussed indirectly.

このえいがをみるには、おかねがいります。(To see this movie, you need money.)

ぎんこうでおかねをかえました。(I exchanged money at the bank.)

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with おかね (Okane) is dropping the honorific 'o' (お) in polite or neutral situations. While 'kane' (金) is the root, using it alone can sound surprisingly harsh, masculine, or even like something a yakuza character might say in a movie. It's similar to the difference between saying 'money' and 'cash' or 'dough' in English, but with a stronger social stigma in Japan. Always default to 'okane' unless you are speaking very casually with close male friends or aiming for a specific 'tough' persona. Another common error is confusing 'okane' with 'genkin' (cash). While 'okane' is the general concept of money, 'genkin' specifically refers to physical bills and coins. If a store says 'Genkin nomi' (Cash only), they are specifically excluding credit cards or digital payments, even though those are also 'okane' in a broad sense.

Mistake 1: Dropping the 'O': Saying 'Kane ga nai' instead of 'Okane ga nai' can sound rude or overly aggressive in polite company.

❌ かねをください。 (Give me dough.)
✅ おかねをください。 (Please give me the money.)

Learners also often struggle with the verb 'to cost'. In English, we say 'The book costs 10 dollars'. In Japanese, you should not use 'okane' as the subject with a verb like 'is'. Instead of saying 'Okane wa 1000-en desu' (The money is 1000 yen), you should say 'Nedan wa 1000-en desu' (The price is 1000 yen) or '1000-en kakarimasu' (It costs 1000 yen). Using 'okane' when you mean 'price' (nedan) or 'fee' (ryokin) is a common semantic slip. Additionally, when paying at a restaurant, asking 'Okane wa ikura desu ka?' (How much is the money?) sounds unnatural. The correct phrase is 'O-kaikei wa ikura desu ka?' or simply 'Ikura desu ka?'. 'Okane' refers to the substance, not the specific transaction amount in that context.

Mistake 2: Confusing with 'Price': Using 'Okane' to ask for a bill or price instead of 'Nedan' or 'O-kaikei'.

❌ このりんごのおかねはいくらですか？
✅ このりんごのねだんはいくらですか？ (How much is the price of this apple?)

Another nuance is the use of particles. Some learners say 'Okane o arimasu', but 'arimasu' (to exist/have) always takes the particle 'ga' (が) for the object being possessed. So, it must be 'Okane ga arimasu'. Similarly, when withdrawing money, some might say 'Okane o torimasu' (take money), but the natural expression is 'Okane o orosu' (withdraw money). Using 'torimasu' can sound like you are physically grabbing money or even stealing it. Lastly, be careful with the word 'Okane-mochi'. While it means 'rich person', calling someone that to their face can be a bit too direct or even slightly impolite depending on the tone. It's often better to use more indirect praise or discuss their 'seiko' (success). Avoiding these common pitfalls will make your Japanese sound much more sophisticated and culturally aware.

❌ おかねをあります。
✅ おかねがあります。 (I have money.)

Mistake 3: Wrong Verbs: Using 'toru' (take) instead of 'orosu' (withdraw) for ATMs.

❌ おかねをとります。
✅ おかねをおろします。 (I withdraw money.)

❌ 500おかねです。
✅ 500えんです。 (It is 500 yen.)

While おかね (Okane) is the most general term for money, Japanese has a rich vocabulary for specific types of currency and financial concepts. Understanding these synonyms and related words will help you navigate different social and professional situations. The most common alternative is げんきん (Genkin), which means 'cash'. You use this when you need to specify physical money as opposed to credit cards or electronic payments. For example, 'Genkin de haraimasu' (I will pay in cash). Another important word is こぜに (Kozeni), which refers to 'small change' or coins. If your wallet is heavy with 1-yen and 10-yen coins, you have a lot of 'kozeni'. Conversely, paper bills are called さつ (Satsu) or しへい (Shihei). 'Satsu' is more common in daily speech, often combined with the value, like 'Sen-en satsu' (a 1000-yen bill).

Okane vs. Genkin: Okane is the general concept (wealth/money); Genkin is specifically physical cash (bills/coins).

げんきんのみ、うけつけています。(We only accept cash.)

In more formal or academic contexts, you will encounter つうか (Tsuka), meaning 'currency', and しきん (Shikin), meaning 'funds'. 'Tsuka' is used when discussing the Yen vs. the Dollar on a global scale, while 'Shikin' is used in business to talk about capital or project funding. For example, 'Shikin-busoku' means a 'lack of funds'. Another related term is ざいせい (Zaisei), which refers to 'public finance' or the financial state of a government or large organization. If you are talking about someone's personal fortune or assets, the word ざいさん (Zaisan) is used. While 'Okane' is what you have in your pocket, 'Zaisan' includes your house, stocks, and land. Finally, おさつ (Osatsu) is the polite way to refer to bills, similar to how 'Okane' uses the 'o' prefix.

Comparison: Kozeni vs. Satsu: Kozeni = Coins/Change; Satsu = Paper Bills. Both are types of Okane.

こぜにがたくさんあります。(I have a lot of small change.)

There is also おこづかい (O-kozukai), which means 'allowance' or 'pocket money'. This is specifically money given to children or a spouse for personal spending. When you receive money as a gift, it might be called おいわい (O-iwai) or おとしだま (Otoshidama) (specifically for New Year's). Each of these words carries a specific social context that 'Okane' alone does not. For instance, you wouldn't call a million-dollar investment 'O-kozukai'. Understanding these distinctions allows you to be more precise and culturally attuned. While 'Okane' is the foundation, these similar words are the specialized tools that allow for nuanced communication in the complex world of Japanese finance and social exchange.

こんげつのおこづかいはもうありません。(I already have no pocket money left for this month.)

Formal Alternatives: Shikin (Funds), Zaisan (Assets), Tsuka (Currency).

かいしゃのしきんをあつめます。(We will collect company funds.)

かれはばくだいなざいさんをきずきました。(He built up a vast fortune/assets.)

How Formal Is It?

Formel

Niveau de difficulté

Grammaire à connaître

Exemples par niveau

おかねがありますか？

Do you have money?

Uses the particle 'ga' with 'arimasu' to indicate possession.

おかねがありません。

I don't have money.

Negative form of 'arimasu'.

おかねをください。

Please give me money.

Uses the object particle 'o' with the request 'kudasai'.

これはおかねです。

This is money.

Simple A is B structure.

おかねをいれます。

I will put money in.

Verb 'iremasu' (to put in).

おかねをだします。

I will take money out.

Verb 'dashimasu' (to take out/produce).

おかねをかぞえます。

I count the money.

Verb 'kazoemasu' (to count).

おかねはだいじです。

Money is important.

Adjective 'daiji' (important).

おかねをはらいます。

I will pay the money.

Verb 'haraimasu' (to pay).

おかねをためています。

I am saving money.

Continuous form of 'tameru' (to save).

おかねをつかいました。

I spent money.

Past tense of 'tsukau' (to use/spend).

おかねをおろしたいです。

I want to withdraw money.

Desiderative form '-tai' with 'orosu'.

おかねをなくしました。

I lost my money.

Past tense of 'nakusu' (to lose).

おかねをかしてください。

Please lend me some money.

Verb 'kasu' (to lend).

おかねをかえします。

I will return the money.

Verb 'kaesu' (to return).

おかねがたりません。

There isn't enough money.

Verb 'tariru' (to be sufficient) in negative.

おかねをためて、くるまをかいます。

I will save money and buy a car.

Te-form used to connect two actions.

おかねのつかいかたをかんがえます。

I think about how to use money.

'-kata' suffix means 'way of doing'.

おかねをむだにつかわないでください。

Please don't waste money.

'-naide kudasai' for negative requests.

おかねをかせぐのはたいへんです。

Earning money is hard.

Nominalizing the verb 'kasegu' with 'no'.

おかねがあれば、りょこうにいきます。

If I have money, I will go on a trip.

Conditional '-ba' form.

おかねをわすれてしまいました。

I accidentally forgot my money.

'-te shimau' indicates regret or accident.

おかねをどこにしまいましたか？

Where did you put the money away?

Verb 'shimau' (to put away/store).

おかねをあつめています。

We are collecting money.

Verb 'atsumeru' (to collect).

おかねをとうしすることにしました。

I decided to invest money.

'~koto ni suru' indicates a personal decision.

おかねの価値（かち）がさがっています。

The value of money is decreasing.

Noun 'kachi' (value).

おかねを管理（かんり）するのは重要です。

Managing money is important.

Noun/Verb 'kanri' (management).

おかねを寄付（きふ）しました。

I donated money.

Noun/Verb 'kifu' (donation).

おかねを運用（うんよう）してふやします。

I will manage/invest money to increase it.

Verb 'fuyasu' (to increase something).

おかねの問題（もんだい）でけんかしました。

We fought over a money problem.

Particle 'de' indicating the cause/reason.

おかねをだましとられました。

I was swindled out of my money.

Passive form 'rare' with 'damashitoru'.

おかねのゆとりができました。

I finally have some financial leeway.

Noun 'yutori' (leeway/room).

おかねがすべてではありません。

Money isn't everything.

Philosophical use of 'subete' (everything).

おかねを工面（くめん）する必要があります。

It is necessary to raise/manage the funds.

Specific verb 'kumen' (raising money/managing to pay).

おかねに汚（きたな）い人はきらわれます。

People who are stingy/dirty with money are disliked.

Idiomatic use of 'kitanai' (dirty) to mean stingy/unscrupulous.

おかねを湯水（ゆみず）のように使います。

To spend money like water.

Idiomatic simile 'yumizu no you ni'.

おかねの亡者（もうじゃ）になってはいけません。

You must not become a slave to money.

Metaphorical 'mouja' (obsessed person/ghost).

おかねを工面（くめん）して、借金を返しました。

I managed to scrape the money together and paid back the debt.

Noun 'shakkin' (debt).

おかねがものをいう世界です。

It's a world where money talks.

Idiom 'mono o iu' (to speak/have influence).

おかねの執着（しゅうちゃく）を捨てました。

I abandoned my obsession with money.

Noun 'shuuchaku' (obsession/attachment).

おかねは天下（てんか）の回り物（まわりもの）です。

Money comes and goes (circulates through the world).

Classic Japanese proverb.

おかねの多寡（たか）は問いません。

The amount of money doesn't matter.

Formal term 'taka' (amount/quantity).

おかねを潤沢（じゅんたく）に保有しています。

Possessing money in abundance.

Formal adjective 'juntaku' (abundant/ample).

おかねに糸目（いとめ）をつけずに投資します。

To invest without regard for the cost (no strings attached).

Idiom 'itome o tsukezu' (without limit).

おかねの魔力（まりょく）に魅了されました。

Fascinated by the magical power of money.

Metaphorical 'maryoku' (magical power).

おかねを洗浄（せんじょう）する行為は犯罪です。

The act of laundering money is a crime.

Technical term 'senjou' (washing/laundering).

おかねの多寡（たか）によって待遇（たいぐう）が変わります。

Treatment changes depending on the amount of money.

Formal 'taiguu' (treatment/reception).

おかねを散財（さんざい）してしまいました。

I have squandered my money.

Formal verb 'sanzai' (extravagant spending).

Collocations courantes

お金を払う (Okane o harau) - To pay money

お金を貯める (Okane o tameru) - To save money

お金を稼ぐ (Okane o kasegu) - To earn money

お金を下ろす (Okane o orosu) - To withdraw money

お金がかかる (Okane ga kakaru) - To cost money

お金を貸す (Okane o kasu) - To lend money

お金を借りる (Okane o kariru) - To borrow money

お金をなくす (Okane o nakusu) - To lose money

お金を使う (Okane o tsukau) - To spend money

お金を換える (Okane o kaeru) - To exchange money

Phrases Courantes

お金持ち (Okane-mochi) - Rich person

お金がない (Okane ga nai) - Have no money

お金が足りない (Okane ga tarinai) - Not enough money

お金の問題 (Okane no mondai) - Money problem

お金の無駄 (Okane no muda) - Waste of money

お金の使い道 (Okane no tsukaimichi) - Way to spend money

お金の管理 (Okane no kanri) - Money management

お金を工面する (Okane o kumen suru) - To raise funds

お金を崩す (Okane o kuzusu) - To break a large bill

お金に困る (Okane ni komaru) - To be in financial trouble

Souvent confondu avec

おかね vs 金 (Kin) - Can mean 'gold' specifically.

おかね vs 値段 (Nedan) - Means 'price', not the concept of money.

おかね vs 会計 (Kaikei) - Means 'the bill' or 'accounting'.

Expressions idiomatiques

Facile à confondre

おかね vs

Structures de phrases

Comment l'utiliser

social

Avoid asking people directly how much 'okane' they have.

politeness

Dropping the 'o' makes you sound like a rough character.

specificity

Use 'genkin' for cash-only situations.

Erreurs courantes

Saying 'Kane' instead of 'Okane' in polite company.
Using 'Okane o arimasu' instead of 'Okane ga arimasu'.
Using 'Okane' to mean 'price' (should be 'nedan').
Asking 'Okane wa ikura?' at a restaurant instead of 'O-kaikei wa?'.
Saying '500 Okane' instead of '500 En'.

Astuces

Use the Tray

When paying at a store, look for a small tray (usually blue or silver) near the register. Place your 'Okane' there instead of handing it directly to the cashier. This is a sign of respect and helps the cashier count the money accurately. They will also place your change back on the tray for you to pick up.

Particle Choice

Always use 'ga' with 'arimasu' when saying you have money. 'Okane ga arimasu' is correct. Using 'o' with 'arimasu' is a common mistake for beginners. 'O' is only for actions, like 'Okane o tsukau' (spend money). Remember: 'Ga' for state, 'O' for action.

Small Change

If you have too many coins, use the word 'Kozeni' (小銭). You can ask a clerk, 'Kozeni de haratte mo ii desu ka?' (Is it okay if I pay with small change?). Japan still uses a lot of coins (1, 5, 10, 50, 100, 500 yen), so managing your 'kozeni' is a daily skill.

The Power of 'O'

Never forget the 'O' in 'Okane' when speaking to teachers, bosses, or strangers. It's not just a 'polite' version; it's the standard version. Dropping it makes you sound like you're in a movie about criminals or being intentionally rude. Stick to 'Okane' for a smooth social experience.

ATM Verbs

When using an ATM, look for the button that says 'O-hikidashi' (Withdrawal). The verb is 'orosu' (to withdraw). If you want to put money in, look for 'O-azukeire' (Deposit). Knowing these specific 'Okane' verbs will save you a lot of stress at the bank.

Indirectness

If someone asks you about a price and you think it's too high, instead of saying 'Okane ga takasugi!' (Too much money!), try 'Chotto takai desu ne' (It's a bit expensive). Being indirect about 'Okane' is a key part of Japanese social harmony (wa).

Gold Root

Remember that the Kanji for 'Okane' (金) is the same as the 'Kin' in 'Kinyoubi' (Friday). Think of Friday as the day you get paid 'Okane'! This links the word to a day of the week you already know, making it easier to remember the Kanji and the meaning.

New Bills

For formal occasions like weddings, Japanese people go to the bank specifically to get 'Shin-satsu' (brand new bills). Giving old, crumpled 'Okane' as a wedding gift is considered very rude. Always try to keep some crisp bills aside for unexpected formal events.

The 'En' Sound

In shops, you'll hear numbers followed by 'En' (Yen). The word 'Okane' itself might not be used. For example, 'Sen-en desu' (It's 1000 yen). Train your ears to hear the number + 'en' pattern as the most common way 'Okane' is discussed in real-time transactions.

The 'O-kaikei' Switch

When you are ready to pay at a restaurant, don't say 'Okane!'. Instead, catch the waiter's eye and say 'O-kaikei, onegaishimasu'. This is the professional way to ask for the bill. It shows you know the specific vocabulary for the situation beyond just the basic word for money.

Mémorise-le

Origine du mot

The character 金 (Kane) originally represented gold or metal. The honorific 'O' was added in the Edo period to elevate the status of money in polite speech.

Contexte culturel

Always use a clean envelope when giving money.

Do not crumple bills; keep them flat in a long wallet.

Avoid counting change conspicuously in front of the person who gave it to you.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Amorces de conversation

"日本のお金はきれいですね。 (Japanese money is beautiful, isn't it?)"

"最近、物価が上がってお金がかかりますね。 (Prices have risen lately, so it costs a lot of money, doesn't it?)"

"宝くじでお金が当たったら、何をしますか？ (If you won money in the lottery, what would you do?)"

"お金を貯めるいい方法はありますか？ (Is there a good way to save money?)"

"子供にお金の教育をしていますか？ (Do you give your children financial education?)"

Sujets d'écriture

今日、何にお金を使いましたか？ (What did you spend money on today?)

あなたにとって、お金はどれくらい大切ですか？ (How important is money to you?)

将来のために、どのようにお金を貯めていますか？ (How are you saving money for the future?)

お金で買えない大切なものは何ですか？ (What is something important that money can't buy?)

初めて自分でお金を稼いだ時のことを書いてください。 (Write about the first time you earned money yourself.)

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

The 'O' is an honorific prefix used to show respect and politeness. In Japanese culture, certain important items like money, tea (O-cha), and water (O-mizu) are 'beautified' with this prefix. Using just 'Kane' sounds very blunt, unrefined, or even aggressive. It is similar to using slang or being overly familiar in a situation that requires a standard level of politeness. For learners, it is always safer and more natural to include the 'O'.

In a broad sense, yes, 'Okane' refers to the value or funds you have, including what is on a credit card or in a bank account. However, if you are at a store and want to specify your payment method, you would use 'Kurejitto kado' (credit card) or 'Denshi mane' (electronic money). 'Okane' is the concept of the wealth being transferred, while the other terms describe the specific medium. If you say 'Okane ga arimasen', it usually implies you have no means to pay at all.

'Okane' is the general word for money as a concept or asset. 'Genkin' specifically refers to physical cash—the actual bills and coins in your hand. If a restaurant has a sign that says 'Genkin nomi', it means they do not accept cards or digital payments. You wouldn't usually say 'Okane nomi' because that would just mean 'money only', which is confusing since cards are also a form of money. Use 'Genkin' when the physical form of the money matters.

While you *could* ask 'Okane wa ikura desu ka?' (How much is the money?), it sounds very 'textbook' and slightly unnatural. The standard way to ask for the bill in a restaurant is 'O-kaikei, onegaishimasu' (The bill, please) or simply 'Ikura desu ka?' (How much is it?). 'O-kaikei' refers specifically to the settlement of the account. Using 'Okane' in this context sounds like you are asking about the physical existence of money rather than the price of your meal.

No, 'Okane' is strictly a noun. To express actions related to money, you must pair it with a verb and the appropriate particle. For example, 'Okane o harau' (to pay money) or 'Okane o tameru' (to save money). You cannot 'Okane-suru'. If you want to talk about financing or funding in a more verbal way, you might use 'Shikin-suru' in very specific business contexts, but for daily life, it's always Noun + Verb.

In Japan, talking openly about specific amounts of money, such as your salary or the cost of an expensive gift, can be seen as 'iyashii' (vulgar or greedy). It is generally considered better to be humble and indirect. However, discussing 'Okane' in a practical sense—like budgeting for a trip or the rising cost of groceries—is perfectly normal. The key is the context and the level of detail you provide to people who aren't close friends or family.

'Okane-mochi' (お金持ち) literally translates to 'money-holder'. It is the standard Japanese term for a 'rich person'. It is a very common and neutral-to-positive term. If you want to say someone is very wealthy, you can say 'Sugoi okane-mochi'. While it's a common term, calling someone an 'okane-mochi' to their face might be a bit too direct, so it's often used when talking about someone else.

The most standard polite way is 'Okane ga arimasen'. If you are with friends and want to be a bit more casual but still use 'Okane', you can say 'Okane ga nai'. If you want to be slightly humorous or indirect about being broke, you might say 'Ima, chotto pinchi desu' (I'm in a bit of a pinch right now). Avoid using 'Kane ga nai' unless you are aiming for a very rough, informal masculine style.

'Otoshidama' is a special kind of 'Okane' given to children by their parents and relatives during the New Year (Oshogatsu). The money is placed in small, decorated envelopes called 'pochibukuro'. It is a major tradition in Japan, and children often save this money to buy something big. It is one of the many ways 'Okane' is integrated into Japanese seasonal customs and family obligations.

The pitch accent for 'Okane' is 'o-KA-ne'. This means the first syllable 'o' is low, the second syllable 'ka' is high, and the third syllable 'ne' drops back down to low. Getting this right helps you sound more like a native speaker and prevents confusion with other words that might have different pitch patterns. Practice by saying 'low-HIGH-low' while tapping your hand.