When you fill out forms or introduce yourself in Japan, you'll often be asked for your 名字 (myōji). This is your family name, which comes before your given name in Japanese culture. Think of it like your last name in English. For example, if your name is Yamada Ken, Yamada is your 名字. It's an important part of your identity and how people refer to families.
When talking about someone’s family name in Japanese, 名字 (myōji) is the most common and neutral term. While 苗字 also reads as myōji and means the same thing, 名字 is the more frequently used kanji combination in modern Japanese.
It’s important to note that unlike in many Western cultures, in Japan, the family name typically comes before the given name. For example, if someone’s full name is Yamada Hanako, Yamada is their family name (名字) and Hanako is their given name.
While often used interchangeably with 姓 (sei), 姓 historically referred to ancient clan names granted by the emperor, whereas 名字 became more prevalent during the Edo period to refer to family names that could be adopted by commoners. In contemporary usage, 姓 is a more formal or official term often seen on documents, while 名字 is used more in everyday conversation.
Understanding the nuance between 名字 and 姓, and the convention of family name first, is crucial for accurate communication in Japanese.
When talking about someone’s 名字（みょうじ）, you’re referring to their family name or surname. It’s the part of their name that’s passed down through generations. In Japan, traditionally, the family name comes before the given name.
For example, in a name like 山田（やまだ） 太郎（たろう）, 山田（やまだ） is the 名字（みょうじ）. You’ll often hear this term when people are filling out forms or introducing themselves, especially in more formal situations.
§ Understanding 名字 (myōji)
You're learning Japanese, and knowing how to talk about names is essential. Today, we're looking at 名字 (myōji), which means 'surname' or 'family name'. It's a fundamental word you'll encounter often.
- DEFINITION
- Surname; family name.
§ Where you actually hear this word — work, school, news
You'll hear 名字 (myōji) in various everyday situations. Here's a breakdown:
- At Work/School: When filling out forms, introducing yourself, or discussing identity, 名字 is common.
- In Conversations: People might ask about your family name, or you might discuss someone else's.
- News/Media: When referring to public figures, their 名字 is often used prominently.
Let's look at some practical examples.
§ Work and official contexts
In Japan, family names are crucial for official documents, business cards, and formal introductions. You'll often be asked for your 名字.
お名字は何とおっしゃいますか？
Hint: What is your family name?
扛企窓口の名字は、高橋です。
Hint: The family name of the person in charge of the reception desk is Takahashi.
§ School and social settings
At school, students are often identified by their 名字, especially in larger classes. Socially, it's a polite way to refer to someone, particularly if you don't know their given name well.
彼の名字は鈴木さんだった。
Hint: His family name was Suzuki.
あの学生の名字を知っていますか？
Hint: Do you know that student's family name?
§ News and general information
When reading news or articles, especially about Japanese people, their 名字 is almost always included, often as the primary identifier.
新しい大臣は田中さんという名字だ。
Hint: The new minister's family name is Tanaka.
Understanding 名字 (myōji) is a small but important step in becoming more comfortable with Japanese communication. Keep practicing, and you'll master it in no time!
Pronunciation Guide
- mi-yo-zi
Difficulty Rating
short
short
short
short
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Japanese family names (名字) come before the given name. For example, '田中' (Tanaka) is the family name, and '一郎' (Ichirou) is the given name. So, you would say '田中一郎' (Tanaka Ichirou).
田中さんの名字は田中です。 (Tanaka-san's family name is Tanaka.)
When addressing someone formally, or when you don't know their given name, you often use their family name followed by a honorific like '-san' (〜さん).
佐藤さん、おはようございます。 (Good morning, Satou-san.)
If someone asks for your family name, they might say 'お名前は何ですか？' (What is your name?) or more specifically, '名字は何ですか？' (What is your family name?).
私の名字はスミスです。 (My family name is Smith.)
When introducing yourself, you can state your family name first, then your given name. For example, 'スミスジョンです' (I am Smith John).
私は山田花子です。 (I am Yamada Hanako.)
In formal documents or official contexts, there might be separate fields for 名字 (family name) and 名前 (given name).
この書類に名字を書いてください。 (Please write your family name on this document.)
Examples by Level
あなたの名字は何ですか？
What's your last name?
私の名字は田中です。
My last name is Tanaka.
日本にはたくさんの名字があります。
There are many surnames in Japan.
彼の名字は佐藤です。
His last name is Sato.
彼女の名字は山田です。
Her last name is Yamada.
私の先生の名字は鈴木です。
My teacher's last name is Suzuki.
これは珍しい名字です。
This is a rare surname.
名字と名前を教えてください。
Please tell me your surname and given name.
日本の多くの名字には自然に関連する漢字が含まれています。
Many Japanese surnames include kanji related to nature.
あなたの名字は何ですか？
What is your surname?
田中さんの名字は日本でとても一般的です。
Tanaka is a very common surname in Japan.
結婚後、彼女は夫の名字になりました。
After marriage, she took her husband's surname.
このクラスには同じ名字の生徒が二人います。
There are two students with the same surname in this class.
名字は個人のアイデンティティの一部です。
A surname is part of a person's identity.
彼は自分の名字の歴史を調べました。
He researched the history of his surname.
履歴書には名前と名字を書いてください。
Please write your given name and surname on your resume.
日本では結婚すると、普通は女性が男性の名字になります。
In Japan, when people marry, it's common for the woman to take the man's surname.
私の名字は珍しいので、よく間違えられます。
My surname is unusual, so it's often mistaken.
応募書類には、名前だけでなく名字もきちんと記入してください。
Please fill in not only your given name but also your surname accurately on the application documents.
このクラスには同じ名字の生徒が3人います。
There are three students with the same surname in this class.
歴史の授業で、有名な戦国武将の名字について学びました。
In history class, I learned about the surnames of famous Sengoku period warlords.
私の旧姓は田中でしたが、結婚して佐藤になりました。今は佐藤が私の名字です。
My maiden name was Tanaka, but I became Sato after marriage. Now Sato is my surname.
会社では、同僚を名字で呼ぶのが一般的です。
At work, it's common to call colleagues by their surnames.
彼は自分の名字の由来に興味があり、調べているそうです。
He is interested in the origin of his surname and is apparently researching it.
日本では、結婚すると夫婦どちらかの名字を選ぶのが一般的です。
In Japan, it's common for a couple to choose one spouse's surname when they get married.
〜のが一般的です (no ga ippan desu): it is common to do ~
私の名字は珍しいので、よく間違えられます。
My surname is unusual, so it's often mistaken.
〜ので (node): because; so
履歴書には、名前と名字を正確に記入してください。
Please accurately fill in your given name and surname on your resume.
〜に (ni): in; on (location/object)
このクラスには、同じ名字の生徒が二人います。
There are two students with the same surname in this class.
〜には (ni wa): in; for (emphasizing location/object)
名字は変わっても、家族の絆は変わりません。
Even if the surname changes, family ties don't change.
〜ても (temo): even if; even though
日本で最も多い名字は「佐藤」だそうです。
Apparently, the most common surname in Japan is "Sato."
〜だそうです (da sou desu): I hear that; apparently
彼の名字は読み方が難しいので、いつも尋ねてしまいます。
His surname is difficult to read, so I always end up asking.
〜ので (node): because; so; 〜てしまいます (te shimaimasu): end up doing ~ (often with a nuance of regret or completion)
結婚後に自分の名字を残すことも可能です。
It is also possible to keep your own surname after marriage.
〜ことも可能です (koto mo kanou desu): it is also possible to do ~
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
あなたの名字は何ですか？
What is your surname?
私の名字は田中です。
My surname is Tanaka.
結婚して名字が変わりました。
My surname changed after marriage.
日本には珍しい名字がたくさんあります。
There are many rare surnames in Japan.
彼は名字で呼ばれることを好みます。
He prefers to be called by his surname.
これはとても一般的な名字です。
This is a very common surname.
自分の名字の由来を知っていますか？
Do you know the origin of your surname?
同じ名字の人と出会いました。
I met someone with the same surname.
歴史の授業で昔の名字について学びました。
I learned about old surnames in history class.
家族の名字を継ぐのは重要です。
It is important to inherit the family surname.
Often Confused With
名字 (myouji) is specifically the family name, while 名前 (namae) is a broader term for 'name' (can be given name or full name).
Both mean 'surname', but 名字 (myouji) is more common in daily use, and 姓 (sei) is more formal or used in official contexts.
These are English loanwords referring to given name and surname respectively. Be careful with the order; Japanese typically puts the family name (名字) first.
Grammar Patterns
Idioms & Expressions
"山田さんという名字です。"
My surname is Yamada.
山田さんという名字です。
neutral"名字と名前"
First name and last name.
名字と名前を書いてください。
neutral"名字はなんですか？"
What is your surname?
名字はなんですか？
neutral"珍しい名字ですね。"
That's a rare surname.
珍しい名字ですね。
neutral"名字が変わる"
To change one's surname (e.g., upon marriage).
結婚して名字が変わりました。
neutral"名字で呼ぶ"
To call someone by their surname.
先生は生徒を名字で呼ぶことが多い。
neutral"よくある名字"
A common surname.
田中さんはよくある名字です。
neutral"名字の由来"
The origin of a surname.
この名字の由来は何ですか？
neutral"名字順"
In alphabetical order by surname.
名簿は名字順に並んでいます。
neutral"名字が同じ"
Having the same surname.
彼と私は名字が同じです。
neutralEasily Confused
Both 名字 (myouji) and 名前 (namae) refer to parts of a person's name, but they are used differently.
名字 (myouji) specifically means 'surname' or 'family name'. 名前 (namae) is a more general term meaning 'name', and it can refer to either the given name or the full name (surname + given name).
あなたの名前は何ですか？ (Anata no namae wa nan desu ka?) - What is your name? (This could be asking for their full name or given name depending on context.)
姓 (sei) is another word that means 'surname' or 'family name', similar to 名字 (myouji).
While 姓 (sei) and 名字 (myouji) can often be used interchangeably, 名字 (myouji) is more commonly used in everyday conversation. 姓 (sei) tends to be more formal or used in written contexts, especially when talking about official records or lists.
お名前とご姓をお願いします。(O-namae to go-sei o onegai shimasu.) - Your name and surname, please. (More formal request.)
This is actually the same word as 名字, just written with a different kanji (苗 instead of 名).
There is no difference in meaning. 苗字 (myouji) and 名字 (myouji) are synonyms and are pronounced the same. 名字 is generally the more common and preferred spelling in modern Japanese.
彼の苗字は田中です。(Kare no myouji wa Tanaka desu.) - His surname is Tanaka. (Same meaning as using 名字.)
This is a loanword from English, 'first name'. It's confusing because Japanese naming conventions put the family name first.
ファーストネーム (faasuto neemu) refers to the given name, which is the part of the name that comes *after* the surname in Japanese order, but is called 'first name' in English order. 名字 (myouji) is the family name, which comes *before* the given name in Japanese order.
あなたのファーストネームは何ですか？ (Anata no faasuto neemu wa nan desu ka?) - What is your first name? (Asking for their given name.)
This is also a loanword from English, 'last name'. It's confusing because in Japanese, the family name comes first.
ラストネーム (rasuto neemu) refers to the family name (surname), which is the part of the name that comes *before* the given name in Japanese order, but is called 'last name' in English order. 名字 (myouji) is directly the family name.
あなたのラストネームを教えてください。(Anata no rasuto neemu o oshiete kudasai.) - Please tell me your last name. (Asking for their surname.)
Sentence Patterns
あなたの名字は何ですか？ (Anata no myouji wa nan desu ka?)
What is your last name?
私の名字は田中です。 (Watashi no myouji wa Tanaka desu.)
My last name is Tanaka.
日本の名字は面白いですね。 (Nihon no myouji wa omoshiroi desu ne.)
Japanese surnames are interesting, aren't they?
彼は珍しい名字です。 (Kare wa mezurashii myouji desu.)
He has an unusual surname.
この名字は有名です。 (Kono myouji wa yuumei desu.)
This family name is famous.
名字が変わることはよくありますか？ (Myouji ga kawaru koto wa yoku arimasu ka?)
Is it common for surnames to change?
彼女の名字は山田です。 (Kanojo no myouji wa Yamada desu.)
Her family name is Yamada.
日本にはたくさんの名字があります。 (Nihon niwa takusan no myouji ga arimasu.)
There are many surnames in Japan.
How to Use It
When referring to someone, it's more common and polite in Japanese to use their surname followed by an appropriate honorific (like -san, -kun, -chan). For example, if someone's surname is Tanaka, you would say Tanaka-san (田中さん). It's generally not common to refer to someone by their given name unless you are very close or they are a child.
While 名字 (myōji) specifically means 'surname' or 'family name', you might also hear 姓 (sei) used for the same meaning, especially in more formal contexts or when talking about registered names. However, 名字 is the more common everyday term.
A common mistake for English speakers is to use someone's given name directly, as is often done in English. Remember to use the surname with an honorific. For example, if a Japanese person introduces themselves as 'Yamamoto Hanako,' it's best to address them as 'Yamamoto-san,' not 'Hanako-san,' unless explicitly invited to do so. Another mistake is to think that '名字' includes the given name; it specifically refers to the family name.
Tips
Basic Meaning of 名字
名字 (myōji) specifically refers to your surname or family name. It's the part of your name that indicates your family lineage.
Order of Japanese Names
In Japan, the family name comes first, followed by the given name. So, for someone named 'Yamada Ken', Yamada is their 名字.
Common Japanese Surnames
Some of the most common 名字 in Japan include 佐藤 (Satō), 鈴木 (Suzuki), and 高橋 (Takahashi). You'll hear these a lot.
Distinguishing 名字 from 名前
While 名字 is specifically 'surname', 名前 (namae) is the more general term for 'name', which can refer to either the full name or just the given name depending on context.
Contextual Use with Honorifics
When addressing someone, you typically use their 名字 followed by an appropriate honorific like ～さん (san). For example, '田中さん' (Tanaka-san).
Avoid Using Given Name Alone
It's generally considered impolite to address someone by their given name alone (without a suffix like -chan or -kun) unless you are very close to them.
Kanji for Myōji
The kanji for 名字 are 名 (na/mei) meaning 'name' and 字 (ji/aza) meaning 'character' or 'section'. Together, they form 'surname'.
Asking for Someone's Surname
To ask 'What is your surname?', you can say: 名字は何ですか？ (Myōji wa nan desu ka?)
Examples of 名字 in Sentences
私の名字は山田です。(Watashi no myōji wa Yamada desu.) - 'My surname is Yamada.'
彼女の名字は鈴木です。(Kanojo no myōji wa Suzuki desu.) - 'Her surname is Suzuki.'
Historical Context of 名字
Historically, not everyone in Japan had a 名字. It became common practice for all citizens to have a surname after the Meiji Restoration.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a big tree, and all the leaves (people) are part of the 'me-ji' (名字 - my family name) tree, belonging to that one family.
Visual Association
Picture a family tree with '名字' written at the top, and branches extending down to show all the family members sharing that same name.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to say your own family name in Japanese: '[Your Surname] です。' Then, ask a Japanese friend or tutor, '名字は何ですか？ (Myouji wa nan desu ka?)' (What is your surname?)
Test Yourself 126 questions
Write your full name in Japanese, starting with your surname.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
私の名字はスミスです。私の名前はジョンです。
Imagine you are introducing yourself to a new Japanese friend. Write a simple sentence introducing your surname.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
私の名字はブラウンです。
Write a question asking someone what their surname is.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
あなたの名字は何ですか？
田中さんの名字は何ですか？
Read this passage:
田中さんの名字は田中です。彼は日本人です。
田中さんの名字は何ですか？
The passage states that Tanaka-san's surname is Tanaka.
The passage states that Tanaka-san's surname is Tanaka.
この文の『名字』は何を意味しますか？
Read this passage:
私の名字は佐藤です。あなたの名字は何ですか？
この文の『名字』は何を意味しますか？
『名字』 (myōji) means 'surname' or 'family name'.
『名字』 (myōji) means 'surname' or 'family name'.
山田さんの名字は彼女の何を示していますか？
Read this passage:
山田さんの名字は山田です。彼女は学生です。
山田さんの名字は彼女の何を示していますか？
『名字』 refers to a person's family name, also known as surname.
『名字』 refers to a person's family name, also known as surname.
This sentence means 'What is your family name?' in a natural Japanese order.
This forms the sentence 'Tanaka-san's family name is Tanaka.' (Assuming 'Tanaka' is the missing part if this were a fill-in-the-blank). For sentence order, it's about the correct flow.
This means 'My family name is Smith.' following the standard Japanese sentence structure.
Choose the correct Japanese word for 'surname'.
名字 (myouji) specifically refers to a family name or surname, while 名前 (namae) is a more general term for a name (first name or full name).
Which of these sentences correctly uses '名字' (myouji)?
The sentence '私の名字は田中です。' (Watashi no myouji wa Tanaka desu.) correctly uses 名字 (myouji) to indicate 'My surname is Tanaka.'
If someone asks for your '名字' (myouji), what are they asking for?
名字 (myouji) directly translates to family name or surname.
名字 (myouji) refers to a person's first name.
名字 (myouji) refers to a person's family name or surname, not their first name.
In Japan, children usually take their mother's 名字 (myouji) after marriage.
Traditionally, in Japan, a wife usually takes her husband's 名字 (myouji) after marriage, and children take the father's 名字 (myouji).
When introducing yourself, it's common to say your 名字 (myouji) first in Japan.
In Japan, it's customary to state your family name (名字 - myouji) before your given name when introducing yourself.
What is your surname?
Many Japanese surnames are two kanji characters.
Tanaka is a very common surname.
Read this aloud:
あなたの名字は何ですか？
Focus: みょうじ (myōji)
You said:
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Read this aloud:
私の名字は山田です。
Focus: やまだ (Yamada)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
日本には珍しい名字がたくさんあります。
Focus: めずらしい (mezurashii)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
This sentence means 'What is your family name?' in a natural Japanese order. 'あなたの' (anata no) means 'your', '名字は' (myōji wa) means 'family name is', and '何ですか' (nan desu ka) means 'what is it?'.
This sentence means 'My family name is Tanaka.' in proper Japanese order. '私の' (watashi no) means 'my', '名字は' (myōji wa) means 'family name is', '田中' (Tanaka) is a common Japanese surname, and 'です' (desu) is a polite copula.
This sentence means 'There are many Japanese family names.' '日本の' (Nihon no) means 'Japanese', '名字は' (myōji wa) means 'family names are', 'たくさん' (takusan) means 'many', and 'あります' (arimasu) means 'there are'.
Choose the correct Japanese word for 'surname' or 'family name'.
名字 (Myōji) specifically refers to one's family name or surname, distinguishing it from 名前 (Namae) which is a general term for 'name'.
Which sentence correctly uses 名字 (Myōji)?
The question 'あなたの名字は何ですか？' (Anata no myōji wa nan desu ka?) directly asks for someone's surname, which is the correct usage of 名字 (Myōji).
In Japan, which is typically written first, the 名字 (Myōji) or the given name?
In Japanese culture, the family name (名字 - Myōji) is traditionally written before the given name.
名字 (Myōji) refers to a person's first name.
名字 (Myōji) refers to a person's surname or family name, not their first name.
田中 (Tanaka) is a common Japanese 名字 (Myōji).
田中 (Tanaka) is indeed a very common Japanese surname (名字).
You can use 名字 (Myōji) interchangeably with 名前 (Namae) when specifically asking for a family name.
While 名前 (Namae) can generally mean 'name', 名字 (Myōji) is specifically used for 'surname' or 'family name'. They are not interchangeable when referring to a family name specifically.
What is your surname?
My surname is Tanaka, but my given name is Ichiro.
There are many rare surnames in Japan.
Read this aloud:
私の名字は鈴木です。
Focus: すずき
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
あなたの名字を教えてください。
Focus: おしえてください
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Read this aloud:
佐藤さんは日本で一番多い名字です。
Focus: さとうさん
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
This sentence asks 'What is your surname?' in a polite way. 'あなたの' (your), '名字' (surname), 'は' (topic particle), '何' (what), 'ですか' (polite question ending).
This sentence means 'My surname is Tanaka.' '私の' (my), '名字' (surname), 'は' (topic particle), '田中' (Tanaka, a common Japanese surname), 'です' (is/am/are).
This sentence means 'There are many Japanese surnames.' '日本の' (Japanese, literally 'of Japan'), '名字' (surname), 'は' (topic particle), 'たくさん' (many), 'あります' (there are/exist).
日本では、結婚しても女性は___を変えないことが多いです。
In Japan, it's common for women not to change their family name (名字) even after marriage. '名前' (namae) generally refers to the full name, but in this context, it implies the family name. The options '年齢' (nenrei - age), '住所' (jūsho - address), and '職業' (shokugyō - occupation) do not fit the context of marriage traditions.
彼の___は珍しいので、すぐに覚えることができました。
His family name (名字) is unusual, so I was able to remember it quickly. '趣味' (shumi - hobby), '特技' (tokugi - special skill), and '性格' (seikaku - personality) do not fit the context of being easily remembered due to being '珍しい' (mezurashii - unusual) in terms of identification.
日本の伝統では、子供は父親の___を受け継ぎます。
In Japanese tradition, children inherit their father's family name (名字). While they might inherit '財産' (zaisan - property) or '仕事' (shigoto - job) or '習慣' (shūkan - customs), the most direct and common inheritance from a father in terms of identity is the family name.
履歴書には、氏名、___、生年月日を記入してください。
Please fill in your full name (氏名), family name (名字), and date of birth (生年月日) on your resume. This question is a bit tricky, as '氏名' (shimei) already means full name (family name + given name). However, if '氏名' is interpreted as 'given name and family name together,' '名字' specifically clarifies the family name part in a list, often used in forms. '電話番号' (denwa bangō - phone number), '学歴' (gakureki - educational background), and '現住所' (genjūsho - current address) are also common on resumes but don't fit directly after '氏名' in this precise sequence for basic identification.
多くの人が、自分の___の由来に興味を持っています。
Many people are interested in the origin of their family name (名字). The origin of a '出生地' (shusseichi - birthplace), '職業' (shokugyō - occupation), or '目標' (mokuhyō - goal) is less commonly a topic of '由来' (yurai - origin) in the same personal, historical sense as a family name.
彼女は結婚後も旧姓を使い続け、___を変更しませんでした。
She continued to use her maiden name even after marriage and did not change her name (名前). In this context, '名前' (namae) refers to the family name (名字). '住所' (jūsho - address), '国籍' (kokuseki - nationality), and '職業' (shokugyō - occupation) are not directly related to using a maiden name.
Choose the most appropriate word to complete the sentence: 日本では、鈴木さんが一番多い___です。
The sentence states that Suzuki is the most common in Japan. In this context, 'surname' (名字) makes the most sense. '名前' (name) is too broad, and 'ニックネーム' (nickname) or 'あだ名' (nickname) are incorrect.
Which word is commonly used to ask someone for their family name?
While '名字' specifically means family name, 'お名前' (name) is commonly used as a polite way to ask for someone's full name, including their family name. If you want to be very specific, you can say 'お名字', but it's less common in everyday conversation.
If someone asks for your '名字', what information are they typically looking for?
'名字' specifically refers to one's family name or surname. Therefore, when someone asks for your '名字', they are looking for your family name.
In Japan, it is common for a wife to keep her maiden 名字 after marriage.
Traditionally and legally in Japan, when a couple marries, they must choose one surname (名字) to share. In most cases, the wife adopts the husband's surname, though it is legally possible for the husband to adopt the wife's surname. It is not common for a wife to keep her maiden name after marriage.
When introducing yourself in Japanese, you typically say your 名字 first, followed by your given name.
In Japanese culture, the family name (名字) is generally placed before the given name. For example, 'Suzuki Ichiro' rather than 'Ichiro Suzuki'.
The kanji for '名字' (名字) means 'name' and 'character'.
The kanji for '名字' are '名' (myō), which means 'name', and '字' (ji), which can mean 'character' or 'letter', but in this compound, '名字' refers to the family name or surname. It does not literally mean 'name and character' in the context of a surname.
Write a short paragraph about the importance of family names in Japanese culture. Include at least two sentences.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
日本では、名字は家族の歴史と深く結びついています。多くの名字には、その家族の起源や地域が反映されています。社会的なつながりを示す大切な要素です。(In Japan, surnames are deeply connected to family history. Many surnames reflect the family's origin or region. It is an important element that shows social connections.)
Imagine you are introducing yourself to a new Japanese friend. Write a sentence stating your family name using '名字'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
私の名字はスミスです。(My family name is Smith.)
Write a sentence explaining that in Japan, the family name usually comes before the given name.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
日本では、通常、名字が名前の前に来ます。(In Japan, the family name usually comes before the given name.)
日本の学校で生徒が名字で呼ばれる主な理由は何ですか？
Read this passage:
日本の学校では、生徒は通常、名字で呼ばれます。これは、先生が生徒を区別し、尊敬の意を示すためです。しかし、親しい友人同士では、下の名前で呼び合うこともあります。
日本の学校で生徒が名字で呼ばれる主な理由は何ですか？
本文に「生徒を区別し、尊敬の意を示すためです」と明記されています。
本文に「生徒を区別し、尊敬の意を示すためです」と明記されています。
「佐藤」「鈴木」「高橋」が日本で一般的な名字である主な理由は？
Read this passage:
日本には非常に多くの名字が存在しますが、その中でも「佐藤」「鈴木」「高橋」などが特に一般的です。これらの名字は、歴史的な背景や地理的な要因によって広まりました。名字の多様性は、日本の豊かな文化の一部と言えます。
「佐藤」「鈴木」「高橋」が日本で一般的な名字である主な理由は？
本文に「これらの名字は、歴史的な背景や地理的な要因によって広まりました」と書かれています。
本文に「これらの名字は、歴史的な背景や地理的な要因によって広まりました」と書かれています。
最近、日本の夫婦の名字に関してどのような変化が見られますか？
Read this passage:
最近では、国際結婚が増え、日本人の夫婦でも妻が自分の名字を変えずに夫の名字と併用するケースや、夫が妻の名字を選ぶケースも少しずつ見られるようになりました。これは、多様な家族の形を反映しています。
最近、日本の夫婦の名字に関してどのような変化が見られますか？
本文に「妻が自分の名字を変えずに夫の名字と併用するケースや、夫が妻の名字を選ぶケースも少しずつ見られるようになりました」と記載されています。
本文に「妻が自分の名字を変えずに夫の名字と併用するケースや、夫が妻の名字を選ぶケースも少しずつ見られるようになりました」と記載されています。
This sentence asks 'What is your surname?' in a polite way. 'あなたの' (your) introduces the topic, '名字は' (surname, as for) marks the subject, and '何ですか' (what is it?) forms the question.
This sentence translates to 'Tanaka-san's surname is unusual.' '田中さんの' (Tanaka-san's) shows possession, '名字は' (surname, as for) is the subject, and '珍しいです' (is unusual) describes it.
This sentence means 'Her surname is Yamada.' '彼女の' (her) indicates possession, '名字は' (surname, as for) is the subject, and '山田です' (is Yamada) states the surname.
日本では、結婚しても女性が自分の___を変えない選択をする人も増えています。
Context indicates the topic of changing names after marriage, specifically referring to the family name or surname. Both 名前 (namae - given name or full name) and 名字 (myouji - surname) are options, but '名字' specifically refers to the family name, which is the relevant concept in this context of marriage and name changes.
多くの日本企業では、新入社員の___を覚えることから始めます。
In a formal business setting, it is common to refer to new employees by their surnames first. While 名前 (namae) could refer to a full name or given name, 名字 (myouji) specifically denotes the family name, which is more appropriate in this context.
歴史の授業で、有名な戦国武将の___について学びました。
When discussing historical figures like samurai (戦国武将), their surnames are often emphasized to differentiate them and understand their lineage or clan. Therefore, 名字 (myouji) is the most fitting choice.
パスポートの申請には、正しい___と生年月日が必要です。
For official documents like a passport, both your given name and surname are essential. However, the blank here focuses on 'surname' as part of the official identification. Both 名前 (namae) and 名字 (myouji) are plausible, but 名字 specifically refers to the family name, which is a critical component of official identification.
初めて会う人には、まず自分の___を名乗るのが一般的です。
In many formal and initial introductions in Japan, it is customary to state one's family name (surname) first, or at least include it clearly. While you would eventually say your full name or given name, starting with or emphasizing the 名字 (myouji) is common practice in formal introductions.
会社の組織図では、各部署の責任者の___が記載されています。
In formal organizational charts (組織図), individuals are typically identified by their surname (名字) to maintain a professional and structured representation. While their full name (名前) could be used, 名字 is often sufficient and commonly used in such contexts.
Choose the most appropriate word to complete the sentence: 日本では、結婚すると女性が男性の___になるのが一般的です。
In Japan, it is common for the woman to take the man's surname when they marry.
Which of the following is typically a '名字'?
田中 (Tanaka) is a common Japanese surname. 一郎 (Ichirō) and 花子 (Hanako) are given names. ポチ (Pochi) is a common dog's name.
A person's '名字' is usually shared with their:
A surname or family name is shared by members of the same family.
In Japanese culture, '名字' is always written before '名前'.
Yes, in Japanese, the family name (名字) generally precedes the given name (名前).
Changing one's '名字' after marriage is a common practice in Japan.
It is very common for women to change their surname (名字) to their husband's after marriage in Japan.
The kanji for '名字' can also mean 'first name'.
名字 specifically refers to the surname or family name, not the first name (名前).
Imagine you're introducing yourself formally in Japan. Write a short paragraph explaining your full name, including your surname and given name. Make sure to clearly distinguish between the two.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
私の名前は田中一郎です。名字は田中、名前は一郎です。日本の文化では、一般的に名字が先にきます。
You are filling out an official document. Write a sentence stating your surname in Japanese. Use polite language.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
私の名字は山田と申します。
You're discussing the concept of surnames with a Japanese friend. Write a sentence explaining that in Japan, the surname typically comes before the given name.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
日本では、通常、名字が名前の前に来ます。
この文章によると、日本で自己紹介する際に、まず何を言いますか？
Read this passage:
日本の文化では、自己紹介の際に自分の名前を伝える方法が非常に重要です。一般的に、名字を先に述べ、その後に下の名前を言います。例えば、「田中一郎です」という場合、「田中」が名字で「一郎」が下の名前です。これは欧米の文化とは逆の順序なので、注意が必要です。
この文章によると、日本で自己紹介する際に、まず何を言いますか？
文章には「一般的に、名字を先に述べ、その後に下の名前を言います」と明記されています。
文章には「一般的に、名字を先に述べ、その後に下の名前を言います」と明記されています。
明治時代に何が起こりましたか？
Read this passage:
日本の歴史において、名字は社会的な地位や出身地を示す重要な役割を果たしてきました。江戸時代以前は、名字を持つことが許されていたのは限られた階層の人々だけでしたが、明治時代になってすべての国民に名字が義務付けられました。これにより、名字はより一般的なものとなりましたが、その歴史的背景は今もなお多くの人々に興味を持たれています。
明治時代に何が起こりましたか？
文章には「明治時代になってすべての国民に名字が義務付けられました」と書かれています。
文章には「明治時代になってすべての国民に名字が義務付けられました」と書かれています。
日本の名字の多様性について、この文章は何を述べていますか？
Read this passage:
ある研究によると、日本の名字の多様性は世界でもトップクラスだと言われています。例えば、「佐藤」や「鈴木」といった名字は非常に一般的ですが、地域によっては特定の名字が集中していることもあります。このような名字の分布は、日本の歴史的な人口移動や地域ごとの文化的な背景を反映していると考えられています。
日本の名字の多様性について、この文章は何を述べていますか？
文章には「日本の名字の多様性は世界でもトップクラスだと言われています」と書かれています。
文章には「日本の名字の多様性は世界でもトップクラスだと言われています」と書かれています。
This sentence asks 'What is Mr. Tanaka's family name?'. The correct order is 'Mr. Tanaka's family name is (something)'.
This sentence means 'Many Japanese surnames use kanji characters'. The correct order starts with 'many Japanese surnames', followed by 'kanji characters are used'.
This sentence means 'My family name is unusual'. The correct order is 'My family name is unusual'.
日本では、結婚しても女性が自分の___を変えない選択をする人も増えています。
「名字」は家族の名前、姓を意味します。この文脈では、結婚後も自分の家族の名前を保持するという意味で適切です。
履歴書には氏名だけでなく、現住所と___も正確に記入してください。
履歴書には一般的に「氏名」と「生年月日」が必須項目として並記されます。この文脈では、個人情報を求める際に「生年月日」が自然です。
その作家は、作品ごとに異なるペンネームを使っており、本名である___を知る人は少ない。
「実名」は本名を意味し、ペンネーム（筆名）と対比される形で使われます。この文脈では、作家の本名を指すのに適しています。
同級生の佐藤さんは、珍しい___なので、すぐに覚えました。
「名字」は家族の名前、姓を意味します。珍しい家族の名前を持つ佐藤さんという意味で適切です。「姓」も使えますが、口語では「名字」の方が一般的です。
結婚後、彼女は夫の___を名乗ることに抵抗があったため、旧姓を使い続けている。
「姓」は家族の名前、名字を意味します。夫の家族の名前を名乗ることに抵抗があったという文脈で、「姓」が最も自然な選択肢です。
日本の伝統では、子どもの___は父親のものを引き継ぐのが一般的です。
日本の伝統的な慣習において、子供は父親の家族の名前（姓）を引き継ぐことが一般的です。この文脈では「姓」が適切です。
Choose the most appropriate word to complete the sentence: 日本では、多くの人が〜を大切にします。
The sentence discusses something many people value in Japan. '名字' (surname) is traditionally valued and passed down through generations, making it the most fitting choice. '名前' is a given name, and 'あだ名' or 'ニックネーム' are nicknames, which are not generally 'valued' in the same formal sense.
Which of the following sentences correctly uses '名字'?
The question asks for the correct usage of '名字'. 'あなたの名字は何ですか？' (What is your surname?) is a standard and correct way to ask for someone's family name. The other options contain grammatical or contextual errors regarding '名字' usage.
In a formal setting, if you are introducing yourself, which information is typically included in your full name, often starting with the family name?
In formal Japanese introductions, it is customary to state your '名字' (surname) followed by your '名前' (given name). This is the standard way to present your full identity in such contexts.
日本では、結婚すると女性は必ず夫の名字に変えなければならない。
While it's common for women to change their surname to their husband's after marriage in Japan, it is not an absolute legal requirement for women to do so. Couples can choose to keep their separate surnames or for the husband to take the wife's surname, though the latter is less common. The law requires married couples to have the same surname, but does not specify whose surname must be adopted.
日本の皇室には名字がない。
The Japanese Imperial Family does not have surnames ('名字'). This is a unique characteristic of the Imperial Household, as they are considered to transcend the concept of a common family name.
名字は、通常、親から子へと受け継がれる。
'名字' (surname) is traditionally and legally passed down from parent to child, forming a core part of family lineage and identity.
Listen for the speaker mentioning a surname and a common way people address him.
Listen for information about surnames after marriage in Japan.
Listen for what is interesting about researching the origin of surnames.
Read this aloud:
日本の名字は多様で、地域によって特徴があります。
Focus: 多様 (tayou)
You said:
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Read this aloud:
あなたの名字には、何か特別な意味がありますか？
Focus: 特別な (tokubetsu na)
You said:
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Read this aloud:
履歴書には、必ず名字と名前を正確に記入してください。
Focus: 正確に (seikaku ni)
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Imagine you are introducing yourself in a formal setting in Japan. Write a short paragraph (3-4 sentences) introducing your full name, emphasizing your family name, and politely asking for the other person's family name. Use appropriate keigo (honorific language).
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
初めまして。私の名字はスミスと申します。どうぞよろしくお願いいたします。恐れ入りますが、お名字は何とおっしゃいますか？ (Hajimemashite. Watashi no myōji wa Sumisu to mōshimasu. Dōzo yoroshiku onegai itashimasu. Osoreirimasu ga, omyōji wa nan to osshaimasu ka?)
You are writing a formal email to a Japanese business contact whose full name you know (e.g., Tanaka-san). Write the opening sentence of the email, addressing them formally and then mentioning how you are looking forward to discussing a particular business matter. Make sure to use their family name correctly.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
拝啓 田中様 さて、先日は大変お世話になり、誠にありがとうございました。ご提案いただいた件について、詳細をお伺いできることを楽しみにしております。(Haikei Tanaka-sama Sate, senjitsu wa taihen osewa ni nari, makoto ni arigatō gozaimashita. Go-teian itadaita ken ni tsuite, shōsai o ukagai dekiru koto o tanoshimi ni shite orimasu.)
You are filling out a government form in Japan. Write down your full name as it would appear on a formal document, clearly separating your family name from your given name. If you have a common English name, translate it into katakana and use that.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
氏名：【名字】スミス 【名前】ジョン (Shimei: [Myōji] Sumisu [Namae] Jon)
この文章によると、日本の法律では夫婦の名字についてどのような原則がありますか？
Read this passage:
日本の法律では、夫婦は原則として同じ名字を使用することが義務付けられています。この制度は「夫婦同氏の原則」と呼ばれ、戸籍制度と深く関連しています。しかし、近年では選択的夫婦別氏制度の導入を求める声も高まっています。
この文章によると、日本の法律では夫婦の名字についてどのような原則がありますか？
文章の冒頭に「夫婦は原則として同じ名字を使用することが義務付けられています」と明記されています。
文章の冒頭に「夫婦は原則として同じ名字を使用することが義務付けられています」と明記されています。
国際結婚において、日本の国籍を持つ配偶者が結婚前の名字を継続して使用するためには、どのような手続きが必要ですか？
Read this passage:
国際結婚の場合、日本の国籍を持つ配偶者は、婚姻後6ヶ月以内に届け出ることで、結婚前の名字を継続して使用することができます。この期間を過ぎると、家庭裁判所の許可が必要となります。
国際結婚において、日本の国籍を持つ配偶者が結婚前の名字を継続して使用するためには、どのような手続きが必要ですか？
文章に「婚姻後6ヶ月以内に届け出ることで、結婚前の名字を継続して使用することができます」と記載されています。
文章に「婚姻後6ヶ月以内に届け出ることで、結婚前の名字を継続して使用することができます」と記載されています。
日本の名字の多様性について、この文章から読み取れることは何ですか？
Read this passage:
日本の名字は非常に多様で、一説には30万種類以上あるとも言われています。その起源は地名、職業、自然現象など多岐にわたり、地域によって特徴的な名字が見られます。例えば、沖縄では「比嘉」や「金城」といった名字が比較的多く見られます。
日本の名字の多様性について、この文章から読み取れることは何ですか？
文章の最後に「地域によって特徴的な名字が見られます」と明確に述べられています。
文章の最後に「地域によって特徴的な名字が見られます」と明確に述べられています。
This is the standard way to ask 'What is your family name?' in Japanese.
This sentence means 'Mr./Ms. Tanaka's family name is very common in Japan.'
This sentence translates to 'After getting married, she changed her family name.'
/ 126 correct
Perfect score!
Basic Meaning of 名字
名字 (myōji) specifically refers to your surname or family name. It's the part of your name that indicates your family lineage.
Order of Japanese Names
In Japan, the family name comes first, followed by the given name. So, for someone named 'Yamada Ken', Yamada is their 名字.
Common Japanese Surnames
Some of the most common 名字 in Japan include 佐藤 (Satō), 鈴木 (Suzuki), and 高橋 (Takahashi). You'll hear these a lot.
Distinguishing 名字 from 名前
While 名字 is specifically 'surname', 名前 (namae) is the more general term for 'name', which can refer to either the full name or just the given name depending on context.
Example
日本の名字はとても種類が多いです。
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More family words
還暦
B160th birthday (celebration of completing a 60-year cycle).
〜くらい
B1About; approximately; to the extent that.
認め合う
B1To recognize each other's worth; to acknowledge.
知人
B1Acquaintance.
顔見知り
A2Acquaintance; someone you know by sight.
甘える
B1To be spoiled, to fawn; to behave like a pampered child.
活発な
B1Active; lively; vigorous.
思春期
B1Adolescence; the period of transition from childhood to adulthood.
養子
B1Adopted child; a child taken into one's family by legal means.
養親
B2Adoptive parent.
