作詞家
作詞家 30초 만에
- 作詞家 (Sakushika) means 'lyricist'—someone who writes song words professionally.
- It is a noun composed of 'Sakushi' (lyrics) and 'Ka' (expert/specialist).
- In Japan, this is often a distinct role from the composer (Sakkyokuka).
- You see this word in song credits, karaoke screens, and music awards.
The Japanese word 作詞家 (さくしか - Sakushika) is a professional title specifically designating a person who writes the lyrics for songs. In the hierarchy of the Japanese music industry, this role is highly specialized and often distinct from the 作曲家 (Sakkyokuka - Composer) and the 編曲家 (Henkyokuka - Arranger). While Western music often sees the 'singer-songwriter' as a default, the Japanese tradition, especially in genres like Enka and J-Pop, frequently utilizes professional lyricists who craft words to fit pre-existing melodies or themes provided by production agencies.
- The Kanji Breakdown
- The word is composed of three kanji: 作 (Saku) meaning 'to make' or 'create', 詞 (Shi) specifically referring to 'words' or 'lyrics' in a musical context, and 家 (Ka), which denotes a person with a particular skill, professional status, or expertise. Together, it literally translates to 'Creation-Lyrics-Expert'.
- Professional Application
- You will encounter this word primarily in formal settings: television credits, album liner notes, interviews, and professional biographies. It is a formal occupation title. If someone writes lyrics as a hobby, they might say '作詞をする' (I do lyric writing), but the title 作詞家 implies they have achieved a level of professional recognition or that it is their primary vocation.
将来は有名な作詞家になって、たくさんの人に感動を届けたいです。
(In the future, I want to become a famous lyricist and deliver emotions to many people.)
In contemporary Japan, many 作詞家 have become household names. For example, Yasushi Akimoto, the producer behind AKB48, is perhaps the most famous modern example. Understanding this word helps you navigate the credits of your favorite anime openings or J-Pop hits. It also highlights the Japanese cultural appreciation for the 'division of labor' in artistic creation, where the 'craft' of word-smithing is seen as a distinct mastery from the 'craft' of melody-making.
この曲の作詞家は、切ない恋心を表現するのが非常に上手だ。
(The lyricist for this song is very good at expressing painful feelings of love.)
- Nuance Comparison
- Do not confuse 作詞家 with 詩人 (Shijin). While both work with words, a 詩人 writes poetry (shi) meant to be read or recited, whereas a 作詞家 specifically writes 'lyrics' (sakushi) designed to be set to music. The rhythmic and melodic constraints of the latter define the profession.
彼は作詞家としての顔だけでなく、小説家としての顔も持っている。
(He has a side as a novelist in addition to his side as a lyricist.)
Using 作詞家 in a sentence is relatively straightforward because it functions as a standard noun. However, there are specific grammatical patterns and collocations that will make your Japanese sound more natural and professional. Since it refers to a person, you will often find it paired with honorifics like さん (san) or 先生 (sensei) when referring to someone else in the industry.
- Common Grammatical Patterns
- 1. [Name] + は + 作詞家です: This is the simplest way to state someone's profession. (e.g., 秋元康さんは有名な作詞家です。)
2. [Name] + という + 作詞家: Used when introducing a lyricist the listener might not know. (e.g., 松本隆という作詞家を知っていますか?)
3. 作詞家 + になる: To become a lyricist. (e.g., 私は将来、作詞家になりたいです。)
プロの作詞家になるためには、語彙力を増やすことが不可欠だ。
(In order to become a professional lyricist, increasing your vocabulary is essential.)
When discussing the work of a lyricist, you often use the possessive particle の (no). For example, '作詞家の意図' (the lyricist's intention) or '作詞家の世界観' (the lyricist's worldview). These phrases are common in music reviews and fan discussions. Because 作詞家 is a formal term, it is rarely used in slang, though you might see '作詞家志望' (sakushika shibou) to refer to someone aspiring to the role.
あの作詞家の書く言葉は、いつも心に深く刺さる。
(The words written by that lyricist always pierce deeply into my heart.)
- Usage in Media
- In Japanese variety shows or music programs, you will often hear the host say: '作詞家の方にお話を伺いましょう' (Let's hear from the lyricist). Here, the polite suffix の方 (no hou) is added to show respect to the professional.
有名な作詞家に歌詞を依頼するのは、非常に費用がかかる。
(Requesting lyrics from a famous lyricist is very expensive.)
The word 作詞家 is prevalent in specific domains of Japanese life, primarily centered around media, entertainment, and creative education. If you are a fan of Japanese music (J-Pop, Rock, Enka, or Anisong), you will see this word almost daily on screen or in print. It is the standard designation for the creative mind behind the text of a song.
- 1. Music Credits and Karaoke
- When you go to a Karaoke box in Japan (like DAM or JOYSOUND), the screen will display the song title followed by '作詞: [Name]' and '作曲: [Name]'. Here, '作詞' is the shorthand for the lyricist's work. In more formal lists, the person is referred to as the 作詞家.
- 2. Television Music Programs
- Shows like 'Music Station' or 'Kohaku Uta Gassen' frequently feature segments discussing how a hit song was made. They will interview the 作詞家 to understand the meaning behind specific metaphors or the inspiration for the chorus.
番組のゲストとして、伝説的な作詞家が登場した。
(A legendary lyricist appeared as a guest on the program.)
Beyond the screen, you will hear this word in educational contexts. Japan has many vocational schools (senmon gakko) dedicated to the music business. Courses like '作詞家養成講座' (Lyricist Training Course) are common. In these settings, the word is used with a sense of professional aspiration and technical rigor.
彼は日本で最も成功した作詞家の一人として知られている。
(He is known as one of the most successful lyricists in Japan.)
- 3. News and Awards
- The 'Japan Record Awards' (Nihon Record Taisho) has a specific category for 'Best Lyricist' (作詞賞). When the winner is announced, the news reports will use 作詞家 to describe the recipient's career achievements.
新人作詞家が、異例の大ヒットを飛ばした。
(A rookie lyricist scored an unprecedented massive hit.)
While 作詞家 is a specific term, learners often make mistakes by over-generalizing or confusing it with other 'writer' roles. Because Japanese has many specialized words for different types of authors, using the wrong one can lead to confusion about a person's actual job description.
- 1. Confusing with 'Sakka' (作家)
- The word 作家 (Sakka) is a broad term for 'author' or 'writer,' but in Japan, it almost always implies a novelist or a writer of literature. If you call a lyricist a 'sakka' without context, people might think they write books. Always use 作詞家 for songs.
- 2. Confusing with 'Shijin' (詩人)
- As mentioned before, a 詩人 (Shijin) is a poet. While the line is blurry in English (we often call great lyricists 'poets'), in Japanese, they are distinct professional categories. Calling a professional lyricist a 'shijin' might be seen as a poetic compliment, but it is technically inaccurate as a job title.
× 彼は有名な歌の作家です。
○ 彼は有名な作詞家です。
(Correction: Avoid using 'Sakka' for songs; use 'Sakushika'.)
Another mistake is the mispronunciation or miswriting of the second kanji. 詞 (Shi) specifically means 'lyrics' or 'part of speech'. Some learners mistakenly use 詩 (Shi) which means 'poem'. While they are pronounced the same, 作詞家 is the standard orthography. Using the 'poem' kanji is a common 'kanji confusion' even for some native speakers in casual writing, but it is technically incorrect for the professional title.
× あの人は作曲家と作詞家をしています。
○ あの人は作詞家でもあり、作曲家でもあります。
(Note: Use 'A demo ari, B demo aru' to describe someone with dual roles.)
- 3. Mistaking for 'Sakkyokuka' (作曲家)
- Since both start with 作 (Saku), beginners often flip them. Remember: 詞 (Shi) = Words, 曲 (Kyoku) = Music/Tune. A 作詞家 writes the words; a 作曲家 writes the music.
× メロディーを作る人は作詞家です。
○ メロディーを作る人は作曲家で、言葉を書く人が作詞家です。
(Correction: The person who makes the melody is the composer.)
In the world of Japanese writing and music, several terms orbit the concept of a 作詞家. Understanding the subtle differences between these synonyms and related terms will help you express yourself with greater precision and understand the nuances of professional credits.
- 1. 詩人 (Shijin) - Poet
- While a 作詞家 writes for music, a 詩人 writes poems. The primary difference is the medium. Poetry is often free-form or follows literary meters, while lyrics must adhere to the rhythm, tempo, and emotional arc of a musical composition. However, a lyricist with a very literary style is sometimes complimented as being 'like a poet'.
- 2. ライター (Raitā) - Writer
- This is a loanword from English. In Japan, 'Raitā' usually refers to a journalist, a copywriter, or a technical writer. It is almost never used to refer to a lyricist unless specified as a 'Lyric Writer' (リリックライター), which is a term sometimes used in Japanese Hip-Hop culture.
- 3. 作家 (Sakka) - Author/Creator
- As discussed, this is a broad term. However, in the music industry, you might hear the term '作家陣' (sakkajin), which refers to the entire 'team of creators' (lyricists, composers, and arrangers) working on a project.
彼は作詞家というより、むしろ詩人と呼ぶべき芸術家だ。
(He is an artist who should be called a poet rather than a lyricist.)
In modern contexts, especially with the rise of Vocaloid and indie music, the term ボカロP (Vocaloid P) often encompasses the role of a 作詞家, as these creators usually write the lyrics, music, and produce the entire track themselves. Similarly, the English loanword ソングライター (Songwriter) is used, but it usually implies someone who does both lyrics and music.
このプロジェクトには、一流の作詞家と作曲家が集結した。
(Top-tier lyricists and composers gathered for this project.)
- 4. 構成作家 (Kousei Sakka) - Scriptwriter/Planner
- Be careful not to confuse 作詞家 with 構成作家. The latter refers to people who write scripts for radio or television variety shows. While both are 'creators' (Sakka), their work is entirely different.
彼女は作詞家としてのキャリアをスタートさせたばかりだ。
(She has just started her career as a lyricist.)
How Formal Is It?
재미있는 사실
The kanji 詞 (shi) was historically used in China to describe a specific type of poetry called 'Ci', which was written to be sung to existing melodies. This perfectly mirrors the modern role of a 作詞家.
발음 가이드
- Pronouncing 'shi' as 'see'. It should be 'shee'.
- Elongating the 'ka' at the end like 'sakushikaaa'.
- Stress-timing the word like 'SAK-u-shi-ka'. Keep it even.
- Confusing the pitch with 'Sakkyokuka'.
- Mispronouncing 'saku' as 'sake'.
난이도
The kanji 詞 is slightly less common than 詩, but easily recognizable in context.
The kanji 詞 (12 strokes) and 構 require some practice to write correctly.
Pronunciation is straightforward with no difficult sounds for English speakers.
Easy to hear in music-related contexts.
다음에 무엇을 배울까
선수 학습
다음에 배울 것
고급
알아야 할 문법
Noun + として (As a...)
彼は作詞家として有名だ。
Noun + になる (To become...)
私は作詞家になりたい。
Relative Clauses
彼が尊敬する作詞家は秋元さんだ。
Passive Voice with によって
この曲は有名な作詞家によって書かれた。
Expressing respect with 先生
作詞家の先生にアドバイスをもらう。
수준별 예문
彼は作詞家です。
He is a lyricist.
Simple A is B structure using the 'desu' copula.
私は作詞家になりたいです。
I want to become a lyricist.
Using 'ni naritai' to express a desire to become something.
有名な作詞家を知っていますか?
Do you know a famous lyricist?
Using 'wo shitte imasu ka' to ask about knowledge.
この作詞家はすごいです。
This lyricist is amazing.
Using 'kono' as a demonstrative adjective.
作詞家の名前は何ですか?
What is the lyricist's name?
Using the possessive 'no' and the question 'nan desu ka'.
作詞家は言葉を書きます。
A lyricist writes words.
Simple subject-object-verb structure.
私の父は作詞家でした。
My father was a lyricist.
Past tense of the copula 'deshita'.
日本にはたくさんの作詞家がいます。
There are many lyricists in Japan.
Using 'ga imasu' to indicate existence of people.
あの作詞家が書いた曲は全部好きです。
I like all the songs that lyricist wrote.
Relative clause: 'lyricist wrote' modifies 'songs'.
彼は有名な作詞家として知られています。
He is known as a famous lyricist.
Using 'to shite' to mean 'as [a role]'.
作詞家になるために、毎日本を読みます。
In order to become a lyricist, I read books every day.
Using 'tame ni' to express purpose.
この曲の作詞家はだれですか?
Who is the lyricist of this song?
Using 'dare' to ask 'who'.
作詞家は、メロディーに合わせて言葉を選びます。
The lyricist chooses words to match the melody.
Using 'ni awasete' to mean 'to match' or 'in accordance with'.
彼女は作詞家だけど、歌は歌いません。
She is a lyricist, but she doesn't sing songs.
Using 'dakedo' to show contrast.
新しい作詞家を探しています。
We are looking for a new lyricist.
Using 'te imasu' for a continuous action.
作詞家になりたいと思ったきっかけは何ですか?
What was the motivation for wanting to become a lyricist?
Using 'kikkake' to mean 'motivation' or 'turning point'.
その作詞家は、若者の気持ちを代弁していると言われています。
That lyricist is said to be speaking for the feelings of young people.
Using 'to iwarete iru' to express a general reputation.
作詞家によって、使う言葉の傾向が違います。
The tendency of words used differs depending on the lyricist.
Using 'ni yotte' to mean 'depending on'.
プロの作詞家になるのは、そう簡単なことではありません。
Becoming a professional lyricist is not such an easy thing.
Using 'no wa' to nominalize the phrase.
彼は作詞家だけでなく、プロデューサーとしても活躍しています。
He is active not only as a lyricist but also as a producer.
Using 'dake de naku... mo' for 'not only... but also'.
作詞家は、日常の何気ない風景からインスピレーションを得ます。
Lyricists get inspiration from casual, everyday scenery.
Using 'kara... wo eru' to mean 'obtain from'.
多くの作詞家が、この美しい日本語を大切にしています。
Many lyricists cherish this beautiful Japanese language.
Using 'wo taisetsu ni suru' to mean 'to cherish'.
憧れの作詞家に会えるなんて、夢のようです。
To be able to meet the lyricist I admire is like a dream.
Using 'nante' to express surprise or strong emotion.
作詞家は、一文字の違いにもこだわって歌詞を書きます。
Lyricists write lyrics while being particular even about a single character difference.
Using 'ni kodawaru' to mean 'to be particular about'.
作詞家としての才能を遺憾なく発揮している。
He is demonstrating his talent as a lyricist to the fullest.
Using 'ikan naku hakki suru' (idiomatic expression).
その作詞家は、比喩表現を巧みに使いこなすことで知られている。
That lyricist is known for skillfully mastering metaphorical expressions.
Using 'tsukaikonasu' to mean 'to master/use skillfully'.
作詞家と作曲家の共同作業によって、名曲が誕生した。
A masterpiece was born through the collaboration of the lyricist and the composer.
Using 'kyoudou sagyou' (collaboration).
彼は作詞家としての地位を不動のものにした。
He made his position as a lyricist unshakeable.
Using 'fudou no mono ni suru' (to make unshakeable).
作詞家は、時代の空気を敏感に感じ取らなければならない。
A lyricist must sensitively sense the atmosphere of the times.
Using 'kanjitoru' (to perceive/sense).
一流の作詞家になるには、豊かな感受性が必要不可欠だ。
To become a first-rate lyricist, a rich sensitivity is indispensable.
Using 'hitsuyou fukatsu' (indispensable).
作詞家が込めたメッセージを正しく理解するのは難しい。
It is difficult to correctly understand the message that the lyricist put into it.
Using 'kometa' (the past tense of 'komeru', to put into).
作詞家は、限られた文字数の中で物語を完結させる。
Lyricists complete a story within a limited number of characters.
Using 'kagira reta' (limited).
その作詞家の紡ぎ出す言葉は、文学的な価値さえも有している。
The words spun by that lyricist even possess literary value.
Using 'tsumugidasu' (to spin out, often used for words).
作詞家は、聴き手の潜在意識に訴えかける言葉を選定する。
The lyricist selects words that appeal to the listener's subconscious.
Using 'senzai ishiki' (subconscious).
彼は作詞家として、既存のポップスの枠組みを打ち破った。
As a lyricist, he broke the existing framework of pop music.
Using 'wakugumi wo uchiyaburu' (to break a framework).
作詞家の独創的な世界観が、多くのアーティストに影響を与えている。
The lyricist's original worldview is influencing many artists.
Using 'dokusou teki' (original/creative).
作詞家は、韻律と意味の完璧な調和を追い求めている。
The lyricist is pursuing a perfect harmony between rhythm and meaning.
Using 'oimotomeru' (to pursue).
その作詞家は、あえて難解な表現を用いることで知られている。
That lyricist is known for deliberately using complex expressions.
Using 'aete' (deliberately/daringly).
作詞家は、言葉の響きが楽曲に与える心理的効果を熟知している。
The lyricist is well-versed in the psychological effects that the sound of words has on a musical piece.
Using 'jukuchi shite iru' (to be well-versed in).
新進気鋭の作詞家が、業界に新しい風を吹き込んでいる。
An up-and-coming, spirited lyricist is blowing a new wind into the industry.
Using 'shinshin kiei' (up-and-coming and spirited).
作詞家の卓越した言語感覚は、もはや言語学の域に達している。
The lyricist's outstanding linguistic sense has already reached the level of linguistics.
Using 'takuetsu shita' (outstanding/surpassing).
その作詞家は、多義的な表現を駆使して聴衆の解釈を揺さぶる。
The lyricist makes full use of ambiguous expressions to shake the audience's interpretations.
Using 'tagi teki' (ambiguous/multi-meaning).
作詞家の筆致には、人間の深淵を覗き込むような鋭さがある。
In the lyricist's style, there is a sharpness as if peering into the abyss of humanity.
Using 'hitchi' (style of writing/brushstroke).
彼は作詞家として、言葉が持つ根源的な力を再定義した。
As a lyricist, he redefined the fundamental power that words possess.
Using 'kongen teki' (fundamental/root).
作詞家は、旋律という制約の中で最大限の自由を享受している。
The lyricist enjoys maximum freedom within the constraints of melody.
Using 'kyouju suru' (to enjoy/receive).
その作詞家の作品群は、戦後日本の精神史を映し出す鏡と言える。
That lyricist's body of work can be called a mirror reflecting the spiritual history of post-war Japan.
Using 'sakuhin-gun' (body of work).
作詞家は、音韻の連なりによって、聴覚を超えた共感覚を誘発する。
Through the sequence of phonemes, the lyricist triggers synesthesia that transcends hearing.
Using 'yuuhatsu suru' (to trigger/induce).
稀代の作詞家が遺した言葉は、時代を超えて人々の魂に響き続ける。
The words left by the extraordinary lyricist continue to resonate in people's souls across eras.
Using 'kidai no' (extraordinary/rare in history).
동의어
반의어
자주 쓰는 조합
자주 쓰는 구문
— To be the greatest honor or joy for a lyricist. Used when their work is highly praised.
自分の歌詞が合唱されるのは、作詞家冥利に尽きます。
— A respectful way to address or refer to a lyricist. 'Sensei' is common in creative fields.
作詞家の先生にご挨拶する。
— An able, shrewd, or highly capable lyricist who produces hits.
敏腕作詞家の手によって、曲が生まれ変わった。
— Making one's professional debut as a lyricist.
彼女は18歳で作詞家デビューを果たした。
— An award given to a lyricist for their outstanding work.
今年の日本レコード大賞で作詞家賞を受賞した。
— A popular, high-demand lyricist who is very busy with work.
彼は今、業界で一番の売れっ子作詞家だ。
— The 'lyricist's side' or 'lyricist's perspective' in a project.
作詞家サイドからの要望を確認する。
— A recruitment call for lyricists.
オーディションで作詞家募集が行われている。
— The spirit or pride of a lyricist.
彼の作詞家魂がこもった一曲だ。
— Fellow lyricists; colleagues in the same profession.
作詞家仲間と情報交換をする。
자주 혼동되는 단어
A poet. While similar, a lyricist specifically writes for music.
A general author/writer, usually implying a novelist.
A composer. They write the music, not the words.
관용어 및 표현
— To spin words. Often used to describe the beautiful or careful way a lyricist writes.
作詞家は一晩中、言葉を紡ぎ続けた。
Literary— To make the pen run. To write quickly or with great inspiration.
インスピレーションが湧き、作詞家は筆を走らせた。
Neutral— To read between the lines. A skill required to understand a lyricist's deep intent.
優れた作詞家の歌詞は、行間を読む楽しさがある。
General— To touch the heartstrings. When a lyricist's words deeply move someone.
その作詞家の言葉は、多くの人の琴線に触れた。
Formal— To breathe life into words. What a great lyricist does to simple text.
彼は作詞家として、ありふれた言葉に命を吹き込んだ。
Literary— To carry the signboard. To represent a genre or an era as a leading lyricist.
彼はJ-POP界の看板を背負う作詞家だ。
General— To take the world by storm. Used for a lyricist whose style becomes extremely popular.
その作詞家は80年代に一世を風靡した。
Formal— To make a name for oneself. To become famous as a lyricist.
彼はアニメソングの世界で作詞家として名を馳せた。
Formal— To whittle away at one's body/soul. To work incredibly hard, often used for artists.
彼は身を削る思いで歌詞を書く作詞家だ。
General— To break the pen. To retire from writing/being a lyricist.
不遇の時代が続き、彼は作詞家として筆を折った。
Literary혼동하기 쉬운
It's the noun for the act, not the person.
Sakushi is the 'writing of lyrics.' Sakushika is the 'person who writes lyrics.'
作詞は難しいが、作詞家になりたい。
Both relate to song words.
Kashi are the 'lyrics' themselves. Sakushika is the creator of those lyrics.
この歌詞を書いたのは、有名な作詞家だ。
Both end in 'ka' and involve writing.
Shodouka is a calligrapher (visual art). Sakushika is a lyricist (musical/literary art).
書道家は字を書き、作詞家は言葉を書く。
Both are professional writers for media.
Kyaphonka writes scripts for movies/plays. Sakushika writes lyrics for songs.
彼は脚本家だが、時々作詞家も務める。
Both work with text.
Henshuusha is an editor who checks and organizes text. Sakushika is the original creator.
作詞家が書いた歌詞を編集者がチェックする。
문장 패턴
[Name] は 作詞家 です。
田中さんは作詞家です。
作詞家 に なりたい です。
将来は作詞家になりたいです。
作詞家 として [Activity]。
彼は作詞家として活躍している。
作詞家 に [Verb] される。
その曲は有名な作詞家に絶賛された。
作詞家 ならではの [Noun]。
作詞家ならではの繊細な表現だ。
作詞家 たるもの [Requirement]。
作詞家たるもの、常に言葉を磨くべきだ。
[Name] という 作詞家。
松本隆という作詞家を知っていますか。
作詞家 の おかげで [Result]。
作詞家のおかげで、曲に魂が宿った。
어휘 가족
명사
동사
관련
사용법
Very common in music media, entertainment news, and karaoke.
-
Using 'Sakka' (作家) for a lyricist.
→
作詞家 (Sakushika)
'Sakka' usually means a novelist. While a lyricist is a type of 'sakka', using the specific term 'Sakushika' is much more natural and precise in Japanese.
-
Writing '作詩家' instead of '作詞家'.
→
作詞家
While '作詩' (writing poetry) exists, the professional title for a songwriter is '作詞家'. Using the 'poem' kanji is a common orthographic error.
-
Confusing 'Sakkyokuka' and 'Sakushika'.
→
Sakushika = Lyrics, Sakkyokuka = Music.
This is the most common beginner mistake. Remember 'Shi' (詞) for 'Speech/Words' and 'Kyoku' (曲) for 'Tune/Music'.
-
Saying '作詞家をする' to mean 'to work as a lyricist'.
→
作詞家として働く / 作詞家だ
You don't 'do' a lyricist. You 'are' a lyricist or you 'work as' one. Use 'to shite hataraku' or simply the copula 'desu'.
-
Calling a singer-songwriter just a 'Sakushika'.
→
シンガーソングライター
If the person also composed the music and sang the song, calling them just a 'Sakushika' is reductive and technically incomplete.
팁
Using 'Sakushika' as a Title
When referring to a professional lyricist, it's polite to add 'san' or 'sensei'. For example, '秋元作詞家' is wrong; use '作詞家の秋元さん' or '秋元先生'.
Don't confuse 詞 and 詩
詞 (12 strokes) is for song lyrics. 詩 (13 strokes) is for poems. They look similar because they both have the 'speech' radical (言), but the right side is different. Remember 'Shi-administer' for lyrics.
Nuance of 'Ka'
The suffix 'Ka' (家) adds a sense of 'mastery'. Using it shows you recognize the person as a professional. For a beginner, you might just say 'Kashi wo kaku hito'.
Karaoke Credits
Next time you do Karaoke, look for the '作詞' credit. It's a great way to learn the names of famous Japanese lyricists and recognize the word in the wild.
Pitch Accent
Try to keep your voice level when saying 'Sakushika'. If you stress the 'ku', it might sound like you're saying something else. Listen to native speakers on music shows.
Professional Requests
If you ever need to email a lyricist, address them as '[Name] 先生' or '作詞家 [Name] 様'. This is the standard professional etiquette in Japan.
Credit Sequences
Anime OPs (openings) are the best place to hear and see this word. The word '作詞' usually appears right at the beginning with the song title.
Context Clues
If you see '作曲' (composition) nearby, the other word is almost certainly '作詞' (lyrics). They are the 'twins' of the music industry.
The 'Saku' Connection
Connect 'Sakushika' (lyricist) with 'Sakkyokuka' (composer) and 'Sakka' (author). They all start with 'Saku' (to make/create). You're building a 'creator' word family!
Complimenting Lyrics
If you want to praise a song's words, you can say '作詞家のセンスがいいですね' (The lyricist has great sense/taste). It sounds very sophisticated.
암기하기
기억법
Think of 'Saku' as 'Sacking' (making) a 'Shi' (Sheet) of music words for the 'Ka' (Character/Person).
시각적 연상
Imagine a person sitting in a 'House' (家) made of 'Words' (詞) that they just 'Made' (作).
Word Web
챌린지
Try to find the name of the 作詞家 for your favorite Japanese song and write it down in a sentence using '~の作詞家は~です'!
어원
The word is a Sinitic (Kango) compound. 'Saku' (作) comes from Old Chinese, meaning 'to do' or 'to make'. 'Shi' (詞) refers to 'words' or 'rhetoric'. 'Ka' (家) originally meant 'house' but evolved to mean 'a person of a house/profession'.
원래 의미: A specialist who creates lyrics.
Sino-Japanese (Kango).문화적 맥락
No specific sensitivities, but when referring to a professional, using the title 'Sensei' is a mark of high respect.
In English, we often say 'Songwriter' to cover both music and lyrics. In Japan, the roles are much more strictly separated in professional credits.
실생활에서 연습하기
실제 사용 상황
At a Karaoke Box
- 作詞家は誰?
- この歌詞、深いね。
- 作詞者の名前を見て。
- 作詞家によって全然違う。
Music Interview
- 作詞家を目指したきっかけは?
- 作詞家としてのこだわりは?
- 有名な作詞家とコラボしたい。
- 作詞家の先生に教わる。
Writing a Resume
- 作詞家として10年のキャリア。
- 作詞家志望です。
- 作詞家賞を受賞。
- 作詞家協会に所属。
Reviewing an Album
- 作詞家の世界観が素晴らしい。
- 作詞家の意図を汲み取る。
- 作詞家の言葉選びが秀逸。
- 作詞家が交代した。
In a Classroom
- 作詞家になるための勉強。
- 作詞家と詩人の違い。
- 作詞家の仕事内容。
- 有名な作詞家を調べる。
대화 시작하기
"好きな作詞家はいますか? (Do you have a favorite lyricist?)"
"作詞家になるには何が必要だと思いますか? (What do you think is necessary to become a lyricist?)"
"この曲の作詞家は誰か知っていますか? (Do you know who the lyricist for this song is?)"
"作詞家と作曲家、どっちの仕事に興味がありますか? (Which job are you interested in, lyricist or composer?)"
"日本の作詞家の中で、誰の言葉が一番好きですか? (Among Japanese lyricists, whose words do you like the most?)"
일기 주제
もし自分が作詞家だったら、どんなテーマの歌を書きたいですか? (If you were a lyricist, what theme of song would you want to write?)
憧れの作詞家にインタビューできるとしたら、何を聞きたいですか? (If you could interview a lyricist you admire, what would you want to ask?)
作詞家にとって一番大切な能力は何だと思いますか? (What do you think is the most important ability for a lyricist?)
自分の人生を歌にするなら、どの作詞家に書いてほしいですか? (If your life were made into a song, which lyricist would you want to write it?)
作詞家という職業の魅力について書いてください。 (Write about the appeal of the profession of a lyricist.)
자주 묻는 질문
10 질문Not necessarily. A 作詞家 specifically writes the lyrics. If someone writes both the music and the lyrics, they are often called a 'Singer-songwriter' (シンガーソングライター) or a 'Songwriter' (ソングライター). However, in professional credits, they will still be listed under '作詞' for the words.
Yes, it is a recognized professional career. Many people work as freelance lyricists or are signed to music publishing companies. There are even awards specifically for this profession.
You should say '作詞が趣味です' (Sakushi ga shumi desu) or '趣味で歌詞を書いています' (Shumi de kashi wo kaite imasu). Calling yourself a '作詞家' might sound like you are a professional.
作詞 (Sakushi) is the act of writing lyrics or the credit for writing them. 歌詞 (Kashi) refers to the lyrics themselves as a piece of text. For example, '作詞: 田中' means 'Lyrics by Tanaka,' and '歌詞を覚える' means 'to memorize the lyrics.'
Yes, the kanji 家 (ka/ya) is used for many professions involving a high degree of skill or expertise, such as 漫画家 (Mangaka - Manga artist), 芸術家 (Geijutsuka - Artist), and 政治家 (Seijika - Politician).
Yes, but in the Hip-Hop community, the term 'リリシスト' (Lyricist) or 'リリックライター' (Lyric Writer) is also very popular to sound more modern.
Yasushi Akimoto is currently one of the most famous due to his work with AKB48 and other groups. Historically, Takashi Matsumoto and Yu Aku are considered legends of the craft.
Yes, there are many 'music vocational schools' (音楽専門学校) that offer courses in lyric writing, where students learn about rhythm, rhyme, and industry standards.
They usually receive an upfront fee for the work and then 'royalties' (印税 - inzei) based on song sales, streaming, and karaoke usage.
Yes, many famous lyricists also publish books of poetry. However, they are two different professional identities. Someone might be introduced as '作詞家で詩人の~' (Lyricist and poet...).
셀프 테스트 200 질문
Write a sentence: 'I want to be a lyricist.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'He is a famous lyricist.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'Who is the lyricist for this song?'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'The lyricist chose beautiful words.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'I respect that lyricist.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'She works as a lyricist.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'The lyricist and composer are friends.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'I am studying to become a lyricist.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'That lyricist's words are deep.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'I saw the lyricist's name on TV.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'The lyricist changed the chorus.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'Many lyricists live in Tokyo.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'He won an award as a lyricist.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'The lyricist's sensitivity is unique.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'I read an interview with the lyricist.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'The lyrics were written by a professional lyricist.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'My dream is to meet a famous lyricist.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'The lyricist wrote a song about summer.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'Being a lyricist is a difficult job.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence: 'The lyricist put their feelings into the song.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Say 'I am a lyricist' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Ask 'Who is the lyricist?' in Japanese.
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'I want to be a lyricist.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'He is a famous lyricist.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'I like this lyricist's words.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'The lyricist is amazing.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'I know that lyricist.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'My friend is a lyricist.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'I'm working as a lyricist.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'I respect the lyricist.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'The lyricist wrote a good song.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'I want to meet the lyricist.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'Who is your favorite lyricist?'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'The lyricist's name is Tanaka.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'Lyricists are creative.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'I want to ask the lyricist a question.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'The lyricist is busy.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'I read the lyricist's book.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'The lyricist won an award.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Say 'I'm aiming to be a lyricist.'
Read this aloud:
당신의 답변:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Listen to 'Sakushika ni naritai' and write the meaning.
Listen to 'Kono kyoku no sakushika wa dare?' and write the meaning.
Listen to 'Yuumei na sakushika ni aitai' and write the meaning.
Listen to 'Sakushika to shite hataraku' and write the meaning.
Listen to 'Sakushika no kashi wa fukai' and write the meaning.
Listen to 'Sakushika wa kotoba no tensai da' and write the meaning.
Listen to 'Shinjin sakushika no debyuu' and write the meaning.
Listen to 'Sakushika no namae wo miru' and write the meaning.
Listen to 'Sakushika ga kashi wo kaita' and write the meaning.
Listen to 'Sakushika ni naru no wa muzukashii' and write the meaning.
Listen to 'Sakushika to sakkyokuka no konbi' and write the meaning.
Listen to 'Sakushika no sensei ni narau' and write the meaning.
Listen to 'Sakushika no sekai-kan' and write the meaning.
Listen to 'Sakushika ni kashi wo tanomu' and write the meaning.
Listen to 'Sakushika no tamago tachi' and write the meaning.
/ 200 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The word 作詞家 (Sakushika) is the formal title for a professional lyricist. Use it when discussing the person who wrote the words to a song, such as: 'この曲の作詞家は誰ですか?' (Who is the lyricist for this song?).
- 作詞家 (Sakushika) means 'lyricist'—someone who writes song words professionally.
- It is a noun composed of 'Sakushi' (lyrics) and 'Ka' (expert/specialist).
- In Japan, this is often a distinct role from the composer (Sakkyokuka).
- You see this word in song credits, karaoke screens, and music awards.
Using 'Sakushika' as a Title
When referring to a professional lyricist, it's polite to add 'san' or 'sensei'. For example, '秋元作詞家' is wrong; use '作詞家の秋元さん' or '秋元先生'.
Don't confuse 詞 and 詩
詞 (12 strokes) is for song lyrics. 詩 (13 strokes) is for poems. They look similar because they both have the 'speech' radical (言), but the right side is different. Remember 'Shi-administer' for lyrics.
Nuance of 'Ka'
The suffix 'Ka' (家) adds a sense of 'mastery'. Using it shows you recognize the person as a professional. For a beginner, you might just say 'Kashi wo kaku hito'.
Karaoke Credits
Next time you do Karaoke, look for the '作詞' credit. It's a great way to learn the names of famous Japanese lyricists and recognize the word in the wild.
예시
彼女は人気のある作詞家です。
관련 콘텐츠
이 단어를 다른 언어로
music 관련 단어
録音する
A2소리를 기계에 기록함.
ポップス
A2팝 음악. 대중에게 인기 있는 음악 장르입니다.
リズム
A2소리나 움직임의 규칙적인 반복. 음악뿐만 아니라 생활 습관이나 일의 흐름에 대해서도 사용된다.
ジャンル
A2음악, 예술, 문학 등의 장르나 부문.
ように
A2비유나 비교(~처럼), 목적(~하도록), 상태의 변화(~하게 되다) 등을 나타내는 말.
ボリューム
A2소리의 크기. 또한 음식의 양이 많고 푸짐하거나 머리카락의 숱과 풍성함을 나타낼 때도 사용된다.
バンド
A2함께 음악을 연주하는 음악가 그룹.
小さく
A2작게. 소리나 크기, 규모 따위가 작은 상태로. 예: '소리를 작게 하다', '작게 자르다'.
大きく
A2크게. 소리나 크기, 정도가 큰 상태를 나타냄.
クラシック
A2서양 전통의 클래식 음악.