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A2 noun #700 最常用 9分钟阅读

メール

meeru 前700

At the A1 level, students learn that メール (mēru) is the Japanese word for 'email'. They focus on basic nouns and simple verbs. A1 learners should be able to identify the word in a sentence and understand that it refers to digital messages sent via a computer or phone. They learn simple phrases like 'mēru o mimasu' (I look at the email) and 'mēru o shimasu' (I will email). The focus is on recognizing the katakana and distinguishing it from 'tegami' (physical letter). At this stage, the nuances of business email etiquette are not yet required, but knowing how to ask for someone's 'mēru adoresu' (email address) is a key practical skill. Learners also practice typing the word in katakana, which is a fundamental part of learning the Japanese writing system. Simple subject-object-verb structures are the primary focus here.

At the A2 level, learners begin to use メール in more varied contexts. They learn to describe the email using adjectives like 'nagai' (long) or 'tanoshii' (fun). They also start using more specific verbs like 'okuru' (to send) and 'kuru' (to come/arrive). A2 students can handle basic social interactions involving emails, such as telling a friend 'Kinō mēru o okurimashita' (I sent an email yesterday) or asking 'Mēru o yomimashita ka?' (Did you read the email?). They also become familiar with common compounds like 'mēru adoresu'. The distinction between casual 'mēru suru' and slightly more formal 'mēru o okuru' begins to be introduced. Learners at this level should be able to write a very short, simple email to a friend or teacher, including a basic greeting and a clear message.

At the B1 level, the focus shifts towards professional and more complex social usage of メール. Students learn about the importance of 'keigo' (honorific language) in Japanese emails. They are introduced to standard business phrases like 'Osewa ni natte orimasu' (Thank you for your continued support) and how to use them in an email header. B1 learners understand the difference between 'henshin' (replying) and 'tensō' (forwarding). They can describe more complex situations, such as 'Mēru ni fairu o tenp添付u shimashita' (I attached a file to the email). At this level, students are expected to manage their own email correspondence in Japanese for daily tasks like making a reservation or asking for information from a company. They also learn about 'meiwaku mēru' (spam) and how to handle digital security in a Japanese context.

At the B2 level, learners master the nuances of tone and register in メール communication. They can distinguish between various levels of formality, choosing the appropriate humble and honorific verbs (e.g., 'ookuri itashimasu' vs 'okurimasu'). B2 students can write detailed emails for work, including negotiations, apologies, and requests. They understand the cultural expectations of response times in Japan and how to phrase follow-up emails politely ('Saisoku mēru'). They are also comfortable with more technical terms like 'kenmei' (subject line) and 'shomei' (signature). At this stage, the learner can read and summarize long, complex emails and respond appropriately to multiple points. They also understand the subtle social cues often found in Japanese digital communication, such as the use of emojis in semi-formal contexts or the lack thereof in strictly formal ones.

At the C1 level, the student uses メール with the fluency and sophistication of a native speaker. They can navigate highly sensitive professional situations via email, such as handling complaints or discussing complex legal or technical matters. C1 learners are adept at using 'setsuzokushi' (conjunctions) to create logical and persuasive email flows. They understand the historical evolution of 'mēru' in Japan and can discuss its impact on Japanese society and language. They are familiar with literary or archaic terms for correspondence and can use them for stylistic effect if necessary. At this level, the learner can also identify and mimic different 'personalities' in email writing, from the brisk and efficient style of a tech startup to the highly traditional and formal style of an established manufacturing firm. Their writing is not only grammatically perfect but also culturally resonant.

At the C2 level, the learner has a complete command of メール in all its forms. They can analyze the linguistic nuances of email communication in various industries and social strata. They might use their skills to draft high-level corporate communications, official press releases, or complex academic correspondence. C2 speakers are sensitive to the most subtle shifts in tone and can use email as a tool for high-level diplomacy or negotiation. They are also aware of the latest trends in Japanese digital communication, including how 'mēru' interacts with newer platforms and how the language is continuing to evolve. For a C2 learner, メール is not just a tool for communication, but a medium through which they can express complex identities and navigate the most intricate webs of Japanese social and professional life with ease and precision.

开始练习例句笔记与提示

メール 30秒了解

メール (mēru) means email in Japanese and is a loanword from the English word 'mail'. It is written in katakana and is extremely common.
It refers only to digital messages, not physical letters (which are called 'tegami'). It is used in both casual and formal business contexts.
You can use it as a noun (メール) or a verb (メールする). Common verbs used with it include 'okuru' (send) and 'muru' (receive).
Essential compounds include 'mēru adoresu' (email address) and 'meiwaku mēru' (spam). It is a key word for anyone living or working in Japan.

The word メール (mēru) is a ubiquitous loanword in modern Japanese, derived from the English word 'mail'. While in English 'mail' can refer to physical letters or digital messages, in Japanese, its primary and almost exclusive meaning is email or digital messaging. For physical letters delivered by a postman, Japanese speakers use the word 手紙 (tegami). Understanding this distinction is the first step for any learner. In the early days of mobile technology in Japan, 'keitai mēru' (mobile mail) became a cultural phenomenon, predating smartphone apps like WhatsApp or LINE. This history has cemented メール as a fundamental part of daily communication, both in professional and personal spheres.

Business Communication: In a Japanese office, メール is the standard for formal communication. It follows a very specific structure: the recipient's company and name, a standard greeting like 'Osewa ni natte orimasu', the main body, a closing, and a detailed signature. Even with the rise of Slack and Teams, the formal メール remains the 'official' record of business transactions and agreements.
Personal Life: While younger generations predominantly use LINE for chatting, メール is still used for official notifications from schools, banks, or online shopping sites. If someone asks for your 'adofuru' (address), they are usually asking for your email address to send you a メール.

昨日、先生にメールを送りました。
(Kinō, sensei ni mēru o okurimashita.)
I sent an email to the teacher yesterday.

The versatility of メール allows it to function as a noun that frequently pairs with the verb する (suru) to mean 'to email' or 'to text'. This flexibility is common with katakana loanwords. However, in formal contexts, verbs like 送る (okuru - to send) or 返信する (henshin suru - to reply) are preferred to provide more clarity and maintain a professional tone.

新しいメールが届いています。
(Atarashii mēru ga todoite imasu.)
A new email has arrived.

Common Compounds: You will often see メール combined with other words: メールアドレス (email address), メールマガジン (email newsletter/ezine), and 迷惑メール (meiwaku mēru - spam/junk mail). Each of these is essential for navigating the digital landscape in Japan.

Finally, it is important to note that メール is a neutral word. It doesn't carry the weight of 'official documents' unless specified. If you are applying for a job, you might send your 'rirekisho' (resume) via メール, but the email itself is just the medium. The word's simplicity makes it one of the most useful katakana terms for any beginner to intermediate student of Japanese.

Using メール correctly involves understanding its relationship with various particles and verbs. As a noun, it most frequently takes the object particle を (o) when you are performing an action on it, or the subject particle が (ga) when the email is the subject of the sentence (e.g., an email arriving).

仕事のメールをチェックします。
(Shigoto no mēru o chekku shimasu.)
I will check my work emails.

When you want to say you are 'emailing' someone, you have two main options. The first is using the person's name followed by the particle に (ni) and the phrase メールを送る (mēru o okuru). The second, more casual way is to use メールする (mēru suru). Note that in the casual version, the particle を is often dropped.

Action Verbs

送る (Okuru): To send. The most standard verb.
受け取る (Uketooru): To receive. Used when emphasizing the act of getting the mail.
転送する (Tensō suru): To forward an email to someone else.
削除する (Sakujo suru): To delete an email.

友達から楽しいメールが来ました。
(Tomodachi kara tanoshii mēru ga kimashita.)
A fun email came from my friend.

In business contexts, the verb 差し上げる (sashiageru) or お送りする (ookuri suru) might be used to show respect to the recipient. For example, 'Mēru o ookuri itashimasu' (I will send you an email) is a very polite way to conclude a phone call or meeting. Conversely, when you receive an email from a superior, you might say 'Mēru o haidoku itashimashita' (I have read your email) in a formal report.

Descriptive Phrases: You can describe emails using adjectives: 長いメール (long email), 短いメール (short email), 大事なメール (important email), or 変なメール (strange/suspicious email). These follow standard Japanese adjective rules.

Lastly, pay attention to the use of メール in the passive voice. 'Mēru ga konai' (The email isn't coming/I haven't received the email) is a common way to express that you are waiting for a message. If you are overwhelmed by messages, you might say 'Mēru ni owarete iru' (I am being chased by emails), which is a common sentiment in the busy Japanese corporate world.

You will encounter the word メール everywhere in Japan, from the quietest office to the loudest train station announcements. It is one of the first words a visitor or new resident will need to recognize on their phone screen or computer interface. In daily life, it's the default term for digital correspondence that isn't a 'chat' (like LINE or DM).

In the Office: The most common phrase you'll hear is 'Mēru de okutte kudasai' (Please send it by email). This is the standard way to request documents, schedules, or confirmations. During meetings, someone might say 'Ato de mēru shimasu' (I'll email you later) to move the discussion along.
At Stores and Services: When signing up for a point card or a service, the staff will ask, 'Mēru adoresu o oshiete kudasai' (Please tell me your email address). You might also hear about 'Mēru bin' (mail service), which is a specific type of cheap shipping for thin items that fit in a mailbox, though this is slightly different from digital 'mēru'.

詳細はメールで確認してください。
(Shōsai wa mēru de kakunin shite kudasai.)
Please check the details via email.

In media, such as anime or dramas, メール often serves as a plot device. A character might wait anxiously for a メール from a crush, or a mysterious メール might trigger a suspenseful event. In these contexts, you'll often hear the sound effect of a phone vibrating or a 'ping' followed by the character saying 'Mēru da!' (It's an email!).

変なメールは開けないでください。
(Hen na mēru wa akenaide kudasai.)
Please do not open strange emails.

On public transport, you will see signs that say 'Mēru nado no goshiyō wa...' (Regarding the use of emails and such...), usually asking passengers to refrain from talking on the phone but noting that silent activities like 'mēru' (texting/emailing) are acceptable. This highlights the social etiquette in Japan where 'mēru' is considered a 'quiet' and therefore polite form of communication in public spaces.

While メール seems straightforward because it's a loanword, English speakers often fall into several traps. The most common mistake is using メール to refer to a physical letter. If you tell a Japanese person you are going to the post office to send a メール, they will be very confused. You must use 手紙 (tegami) for paper mail.

Confusing 'Mail' and 'Post': In English, 'mail' can be a verb ('I'll mail it to you'). In Japanese, メール is strictly digital. If you are sending a physical package, use 郵送する (yūsō suru) or 送る (okuru). Don't say 'Mēru de nimotsu o okuru' (Sending a package by email) unless you've invented teleportation!
Overusing 'Mēru Suru' in Business: While メールする is fine with friends, it can sound a bit too casual or 'light' in a very formal business setting. It's better to use メールをお送りします (mēru o ookuri shimasu) to sound professional and respectful.

❌ 郵便局でメールを出しました。
✅ 郵便局で手紙を出しました。
(I sent a letter at the post office.)

Another mistake is the confusion between メール and LINE. While they are both digital, Japanese people distinguish them clearly. If you say 'Mēru shite!' but you actually want them to message you on LINE, they might send an actual email to your inbox, which you might not check as often. Be specific: 'LINE shite' or 'Mēru shite'.

❌ メールを書いています。
✅ メールを打っています。
(I am typing/writing an email.)

Finally, watch out for the word ポスト (posuto). In English, 'post' can mean 'mail'. In Japanese, ポスト refers specifically to the physical red mailbox on the street or the mail slot in your door. You don't 'send a mēru' to a 'posuto'. You 'send a tegami' to a 'posuto'. Keeping these digital and physical worlds separate is key to natural Japanese.

While メール is the most common term for email, there are several other words you should know to describe different types of messages and communication methods in Japanese.

メール vs. 手紙 (Tegami): As mentioned, メール is digital, while 手紙 is physical. 手紙 often carries a more personal, emotional weight. You send a 手紙 for a heartfelt thank you or a love letter, but you send a メール for a quick update or business matter.
メール vs. LINE / チャット (Chatto): メール is seen as more formal or 'old-school' compared to LINE. In Japan, LINE is the king of personal communication. If you are 'chatting' with a friend, you use LINE. If you are sending a formal request to a professor, you use メール.
メール vs. 電報 (Denpō): 電報 means telegram. While rare in many countries, telegrams are still used in Japan for very formal occasions like weddings or funerals to send official congratulations or condolences. It is much more formal than a メール.

最近はメールよりLINEをよく使います。
(Lately, I use LINE more often than email.)

In a professional setting, you might also hear 書簡 (shokan) or 書状 (shojō), which are very formal literary terms for 'correspondence' or 'letters'. These are rarely used in speech but might appear in formal literature or historical contexts. For the average learner, メール and 手紙 cover 99% of needs.

Summary Comparison

メール: Digital, standard, business/official.
手紙: Physical, personal, sentimental.
LINE: Instant, casual, social.
DM: Social media specific (Direct Message).

Understanding these alternatives helps you choose the right 'vibe' for your communication. If you want to be quick and efficient, メール is your best friend. If you want to show deep respect or affection, consider a 手紙.

How Formal Is It?

正式

"資料をメールにてお送りいたしました。"

中性

"メールで資料を送りました。"

非正式

"あとでメールするね。"

Child friendly

"せんせいにメールをかいたよ。"

俚语

"そのメール、完全にスルーしたわ。"

趣味小知识

Before 'mēru' became the standard, the term 'denshi mēru' (electronic mail) was more common. Now, 'mēru' is so dominant that 'mail' in English-Japanese dictionaries often has to clarify if it means 'tegami' or 'mēru'.

发音指南

UK /meɪl/

US /meɪl/

The stress is even across the syllables 'me' and 'e' (long vowel) and 'ru'.

押韵词

レール (rēru - rail) セール (sēru - sale) エール (ēru - yell/cheer) ベール (bēru - veil) ヒール (hīru - heel) シール (shīru - sticker) プール (pūru - pool) ルール (rūru - rule)

常见错误

Pronouncing it like the English 'mail' with a diphthong and dark L.
Making the 'ru' sound too heavy or like an English 'r'.
Shortening the 'e' sound (saying 'meru' instead of 'mēru').
Adding an 'i' sound like 'meiru'.
Forgetting that the 'e' is a long vowel (chōon).

难度评级

阅读 1/5

Very easy. Katakana is simple to recognize.

写作 1/5

Simple katakana characters.

口语 2/5

Easy, but requires correct long vowel pronunciation.

听力 2/5

Easy, but don't confuse it with other 'ēru' words.

接下来学什么

前置知识

手紙 (Letter) 送る (Send) 書く (Write) 来る (Come) 私 (I)

接下来学习

返信する (To reply) 添付する (To attach) 件名 (Subject) 転送する (To forward) 連絡 (Contact)

高级

承諾 (Acceptance) 謝罪 (Apology) 拝読 (Reading humbly) 送付 (Sending formally) 煩雑 (Complicated)

需要掌握的语法

Noun + する

メールする (To email)

Particle に for Recipient

友達にメールを送る

Particle で for Means

メールで連絡する

Te-form + shimau (Accidental)

メールを消してしまった

Humble/Honorific Verbs

メールを差し上げる / くださる

按水平分级的例句

メールを読みます。

I read the email.

Simple Subject-Object-Verb structure.

これは私のメールです。

This is my email.

Use of the possessive particle 'no'.

メールをください。

Please give (send) me an email.

Requesting an action using 'kudasai'.

メールアドレスは何ですか？

What is your email address?

Asking a question with 'nan desu ka'.

毎日メールをします。

I email every day.

Using 'suru' to turn a noun into a verb.

メールが来ました。

An email came.

Using 'kuru' for arrival.

短いメールを書きました。

I wrote a short email.

Adjective 'mijikai' modifying 'mēru'.

お母さんにメールを送ります。

I will send an email to my mother.

Particle 'ni' for the recipient.

昨日のメールを見ましたか？

Did you see yesterday's email?

Past tense question.

先生にメールで質問しました。

I asked the teacher a question by email.

Particle 'de' indicating the means/method.

新しいメールが五通あります。

There are five new emails.

Counter 'tsū' for letters/emails.

後でメールをチェックしてください。

Please check your email later.

Using 'te-form + kudasai' for requests.

友達とメールで約束しました。

I made a promise/appointment with a friend via email.

Using 'to' for 'with'.

このメールはとても長いです。

This email is very long.

Adverb 'totemo' modifying an adjective.

メールの返信を待っています。

I am waiting for a reply to the email.

Continuous form 'te-imasu'.

迷惑メールがたくさん来ます。

A lot of spam emails come.

Compound noun 'meiwaku mēru'.

仕事のメールを転送しました。

I forwarded the work email.

Verb 'tensō suru' (to forward).

メールに資料を添付しました。

I attached the documents to the email.

Verb 'tenpu suru' (to attach).

お忙しいところ、メールしてすみません。

I'm sorry to email you while you're busy.

Polite apology for interrupting.

メールの件名を入力してください。

Please enter the subject of the email.

Noun 'kenmei' (subject line).

先ほどメールをお送りいたしました。

I sent you an email just a moment ago.

Humble form 'o-okuri itashimashita'.

メールの内容を確認しました。

I confirmed the content of the email.

Noun 'naiyō' (content).

返信はメールでお願いします。

Please reply by email.

Using 'onegai shimasu' for requests.

メールの設定を変更しました。

I changed the email settings.

Noun 'settei' (settings).

重要度が高いメールから返信します。

I will reply to the high-priority emails first.

Using 'kara' to indicate order.

メールの書き方について相談したいです。

I want to consult with you about how to write emails.

Compound 'kakikata' (way of writing).

誤ってメールを削除してしまいました。

I accidentally deleted the email.

Grammar 'te-shimau' for accidental actions.

メールでのやり取りを記録に残します。

I will keep a record of the email exchange.

Noun 'yaritori' (exchange/interaction).

署名がメールの最後に入っています。

The signature is included at the end of the email.

Noun 'shomei' (signature).

至急、確認のメールを送ってください。

Please send a confirmation email immediately.

Adverb 'shikyū' (urgently).

メールの文章を推敲しています。

I am polishing the wording of the email.

Verb 'suikō suru' (to polish/refine writing).

メールの受信設定を確認してください。

Please check your email reception settings.

Compound 'jushin settei' (reception settings).

メールの文面から、相手の怒りが伝わってきた。

I could sense the other person's anger from the wording of the email.

Noun 'bunmen' (wording/text of a letter).

取引先に謝罪のメールを差し上げました。

I sent an apology email to the client.

Very polite humble verb 'sashiageru'.

メールのやり取りが煩雑になってきた。

The email exchange has become complicated/cumbersome.

Adjective 'hanzatsu' (complicated/tedious).

メールでの連絡は、証拠を残すために重要だ。

Communication via email is important for leaving evidence.

Noun 'shōko' (evidence).

メールの件名だけで内容が分かるようにする。

Make sure the content is clear from the subject line alone.

Grammar 'yō ni suru' (to ensure/make an effort).

承諾のメールを正式に送付いたしました。

I have formally sent the acceptance email.

Formal verb 'sōfu suru' (to send/dispatch).

メールの自動返信機能を設定しました。

I set up the automatic reply function for emails.

Compound 'jidō henshin kinō'.

メールのやり取りを通じて信頼関係を築く。

Build a relationship of trust through email exchanges.

Grammar 'tsūjite' (through/via).

メールという媒体の特性を最大限に活かす。

Make the most of the characteristics of email as a medium.

Noun 'baitai' (medium).

メールの氾濫が業務効率を低下させている。

The flood of emails is decreasing work efficiency.

Noun 'hanran' (flood/overflow).

メールの文言一つで、プロジェクトの成否が決まることもある。

A single word in an email can sometimes determine the success or failure of a project.

Noun 'mungon' (wording/phrasing).

メールにおける敬語の使い分けは、極めて高度な技術を要する。

The proper use of honorifics in emails requires extremely advanced skills.

Verb 'yō suru' (to require).

メールの履歴を遡って、経緯を確認する。

Trace back the email history to confirm the circumstances.

Verb 'sakanoboru' (to go back/trace back).

メールの文体から、送信者の教養が伺える。

The sender's education/refinement can be seen from the style of the email.

Verb 'ukagau' (to perceive/infer).

メールの暗号化は、現代のビジネスにおいて不可欠だ。

Email encryption is indispensable in modern business.

Noun 'angōka' (encryption).

メールの返信を怠ることは、社会人としての資質を問われる。

Neglecting to reply to emails calls into question one's qualifications as a professional.

Grammar 'to-wareru' (to be questioned).

常见搭配

メールを送る

メールを受け取る

メールをチェックする

メールを返す

メールが届く

メールアドレス

メールマガジン

迷惑メール

メールを転送する

メールを削除する

常用短语

メールします

メールをください

メールが来ました

メールで送ります

メールを確認してください

メールが届いています

メールアドレスを教えて

メールを打ちます

メールの返信

メールの件名

容易混淆的词

メール vs 手紙 (Tegami)

Tegami is physical; Mēru is digital.

メール vs ポスト (Posuto)

Posuto is a physical mailbox; you don't send mēru to it.

メール vs メルカリ (Mercari)

A popular shopping app that starts with 'Meru' but is unrelated.

习语与表达

"メールに追われる"

To be overwhelmed by emails. Literally 'to be chased by emails'.

月曜日はいつもメールに追われている。

Casual/Business

"メールをスルーする"

To ignore an email. From the English 'through'.

忙しくてメールをスルーしてしまった。

Slang/Casual

"メールのやり取り"

Back and forth communication via email.

彼とはメールのやり取りが続いている。

Neutral

"メール一通で"

With just a single email. Emphasizes the simplicity or power of the act.

メール一通で仕事が決まった。

Neutral

"メールを飛ばす"

To quickly fire off an email. Literally 'to fly an email'.

全員にメールを飛ばしておいた。

Casual/Business

"メールが埋もれる"

An email getting buried in a full inbox.

大事なメールが埋もれてしまった。

Neutral

"メールをさばく"

To efficiently deal with/process a large volume of emails.

午前中にメールをさばく。

Business

"メールで済ませる"

To settle something via email instead of meeting or calling.

謝罪をメールで済ませてはいけない。

Neutral

"メールの嵐"

A storm (flood) of emails.

休み明けはメールの嵐だ。

Casual

"メール不精"

Being lazy or bad at replying to emails.

私はメール不精なので返信が遅い。

Casual

容易混淆

メール vs 手紙

Both mean 'mail' in English.

Tegami is paper; Mēru is electronic.

手紙をポストに入れる vs メールを送信する。

メール vs LINE

Both are digital messages.

LINE is an app for chatting; メール is traditional email.

LINEでスタンプを送る vs メールで資料を送る。

メール vs メッセージ

Broad term for messages.

Mēru is specifically email; Messēji can be anything.

Facebookでメッセージを送る。

メール vs 電報

Both are sent messages.

Denpō is a telegram, used for very formal ceremonies.

結婚式に電報を送る。

メール vs 郵送

Means 'to send by mail'.

Yūsō is for physical items/packages; Mēru is for digital data.

書類を郵送する。

句型

[Person] にメールを送る

お父さんにメールを送る。

メールで [Action]

メールで質問する。

メールに [Noun] を添付する

メールに写真を添付する。

メールの [Noun]

メールの返信、メールの件名。

メールを [Humble Verb]

メールをお送りいたします。

メールが [Passive Verb]

メールが削除されました。

メールを通じて [Action]

メールを通じて連絡を取り合う。

メールの [Formal Noun]

メールの文面、メールの履歴。

词族

名词

动词

形容词

如何使用

frequency

Extremely high in both spoken and written Japanese.

常见错误

Using メール for physical mail. → 手紙 (Tegami)
メール is digital only.
Saying 'メールをポストに入れる'. → 手紙をポストに入れる
You can't put a digital email in a physical mailbox.
Pronouncing it 'mail' like English. → メール (Mēru)
Follow Japanese phonetics.
Using 'メールする' to a CEO. → メールをお送りいたします
'Suru' is too casual for high-level business.
Writing it in Hiragana in a report. → メール (Katakana)
Loanwords should be in Katakana.

小贴士

Verb Pairing

Always pair メール with appropriate verbs like 送る (send) or 届く (arrive) for clarity.

Business Etiquette

In business, always include a clear subject line and a formal greeting.

Compound Words

Learn compounds like 'mēru adoresu' early as they are very common.

Long Vowels

Don't forget the long 'ē' sound. It's 'mēru', not 'meru'.

Katakana Usage

Always use katakana for メール to look like a proficient adult writer.

Email vs LINE

Use LINE for friends and メール for teachers or bosses unless told otherwise.

Spam Awareness

Be aware of 'meiwaku mēru' and check your spam folder regularly.

Method Particle

Use 'de' to say 'by email' (メールで).

Apologizing

If your reply is late, start with 'Henshin ga okurete mōshiwake arimasen'.

Abbreviations

In very casual settings, 'mēru' is sometimes shortened to 'meru' in typing, but avoid this in formal writing.

记住它

记忆技巧

Think of a 'Mail' carrier in a 'Room' (ru). Mē-ru. He's delivering digital letters to your screen.

视觉联想

Imagine a blue envelope icon on a smartphone screen. The word メール is written right under it in bright white katakana.

Word Web

Computer Internet Send Receive Address Subject Attachment Inbox

挑战

Try to go through your day and every time you check your phone, say 'Mēru o chekku shimasu' out loud.

词源

Derived from the English word 'mail'. It entered the Japanese language as a katakana loanword during the late 20th century with the rise of computing.

原始含义： In English, 'mail' refers to the system of sending letters and packages. In Japanese, it was narrowed down to specifically mean electronic mail.

Germanic (English) -> Japanese Katakana Loanword.

文化背景

Be careful with 'meiwaku mēru' (spam). Discussing it is fine, but sending unsolicited emails in Japan is subject to strict anti-spam laws.

English speakers use 'mail' for both physical and digital. In Japan, you must split these into 'tegami' and 'mēru'.

The movie 'Summer Wars' features a lot of email/digital communication. The anime 'Steins;Gate' uses 'D-Mails' (past-sending emails) as a central plot point. The song 'Mēru no Uta' by various artists.

在生活中练习

真实语境

Office/Work

メールで送ってください
メールを確認しました
メールの件名
お世話になっております

School

先生にメールする
メールで質問する
学校からのメール
メールアドレスを登録する

Socializing

メールしてね
メールアドレス教えて
長いメール
返信待ってる

Shopping/Services

確認メール
メールマガジン
メールが届かない
登録完了メール

Technical Support

メールの設定
迷惑メールフォルダ
メールが送れない
受信ボックス

对话开场白

"メールアドレスを交換しませんか？ (Shall we exchange email addresses?)"

"最近、変なメールが届きませんか？ (Have you been getting any strange emails lately?)"

"仕事のメールは一日何通くらい来ますか？ (About how many work emails do you get a day?)"

"メールとLINE、どちらをよく使いますか？ (Which do you use more, email or LINE?)"

"昨日の私のメール、読みましたか？ (Did you read my email from yesterday?)"

日记主题

今日、誰にメールを送りましたか？ (Who did you send an email to today?)

メールの返信を忘れて困ったことはありますか？ (Have you ever been in trouble because you forgot to reply to an email?)

日本語でメールを書くのは難しいですか？ (Is it difficult to write emails in Japanese?)

迷惑メールを減らすために何をしていますか？ (What do you do to reduce spam emails?)

一番嬉しかったメールは何ですか？ (What is the email that made you the happiest?)

常见问题

10 个问题

No, you should use '手紙' (tegami) for physical letters. 'メール' is strictly for digital email.

The word itself is neutral. Formality is determined by the verbs and keigo you use with it.

You can say 'メールする' (casual) or 'メールを送る' (neutral/formal).

It means 'nuisance mail' or spam/junk email.

Yes, especially for business, official notifications, and formal communication.

The counter is 'tsū' (通). One email is 'i-tsū'.

Say 'メールアドレスを教えてください' (Mēru adoresu o oshiete kudasai).

It's a cheap physical shipping service for thin items, not digital email.

Yes, but 'メール' is much more common in daily speech.

It's usually written in katakana. Hiragana looks very informal or childish.