So you’ve just stepped into anime and you can’t help but constantly face anime terms like Keikaku, Nani, Baka. You might be wondering what in the world is a “tsundere”? And why does everyone keep saying “Bakayaro?!” with such dramatic flair? If you’re feeling a little lost, don’t worry. This glossary is your beginner-friendly guide to 50 essential anime terms that every new fan should know!
Table Of Content
Table of Contents
Why Knowing Anime Terms Matters
Understanding anime terms isn’t just about fitting in the community, but it:
- Helps you follow the story and genres more clearly
- Lets you connect better with anime communities
- Adds context to memes, cultural jokes, and fan theories
- Provides insight into Japanese culture and language.
Basic Anime Glossary You Should Know
1. Anime
Simply put, anime is Japanese animation. It covers everything from different genres like action and drama to romance and horror. Think of it as Japan’s version of cartoons but with deeper, weirder, and more artistic themes.
2. Manga
Manga is Japanese comic books or graphic novels, often the source material for anime. They’re usually in black-and-white and read right to left.
3. Otaku
“Otaku” was once a derogatory term in Japan for someone who was obsessed with anime or games, but it has now been reclaimed by fans worldwide as a badge of honor.
4. Weeb
Short for “weeaboo,” it refers to someone (usually non-Japanese) who’s obsessed with Japanese culture, also sometimes in a cringey way—be cautious when using this word!
5. Sub vs Dub
Sub or Subtitle means the anime has subtitles with the original Japanese voice acting. Dub or Dubbed means it’s been voiced over in your native language (like in English). Sub vs Dub is a huge debate between both new fans and veterans, so expect to see people on social media fight over it all the time.
Genre-Specific Terms
We already have a great article diving into detail of different anime genre but here are some popular genre laid out fo you.
6. Shonen
A genre of Japanese comics and animated films aimed primarily at young male audiences, with a full of action-packed plots. (like Dragon Ball and One Piece). You can check our article on “What makes something Shonen” for more information on this genre.
7. Shojo
Designed for teenage girls, shojo mainly focuses on romance, emotion, drama, and emotions (Sailor Moon, Fruits Basket, Kara no Shoujo for example).
8. Seinen
This genre include more mature anime for adult men—expect complex themes, violence, and darker storytelling (Tokyo Ghoul, Berserk, and more).
9. Josei
Similar to seinen but for adult women. Think of mature romance with drama and with more realism and fewer sparkles. (Nana, Paradise Kiss)
10. Isekai
Literally “another world.” In these shows, characters are transported or reincarnated into a different world, often a fantasy or parallel universe (Sword Art Online, Re:Zero).
11. Harem
A genre where one character (usually male) is surrounded by multiple love interests.
12. Ecchi
Suggestive or pervy content, but not quite hentai-level.
13. Hentai
Straight-up adult anime. You’ve been warned.
Anime Terms Denoting Character Tropes & Archetypes
14. Tsundere
Ever meet someone who acts cold and mean on the outside but is actually sweet and caring on the inside? That’s a tsundere!
15. Yandere
Cute… until they snap. These characters are initially sweet and loving but obsessively in love—sometimes murderously so (Yuno Gasai, anyone?).
16. Kuudere
Calm, cool, and emotionless—until they reveal their soft side.
17. Dandere
Shy and quiet at first, but open up once they trust you.
18. Loli
Refers to young-looking female characters. Sometimes controversial due to the childlike appearance.
19. Moe
A feeling of affection or protectiveness toward a cute character.
20. Chibi
Tiny, exaggerated versions of characters. Think Funko Pop style.
21. Baka
Japanese for “idiot” or “fool.” Often used humorously between characters.
Anime Vocabulary You Can Find on Internet
22. Waifu
A fictional female character you’re irrationally in love with. Yep, it’s a thing.
23. Husbando
The male version of a waifu. Fans take this stuff seriously!
24. Fanservice
Those ahem “extra” shots or scenes meant to titillate—like beach episodes or unnecessary close-ups.
25. Canon
Important events or relationships that are officially part of the story.
26. Filler
Episodes that do not follow the manga or main plot are frequently used for delaying purposes while the manga catches up.
27. Shipping
wanting two characters to get together romantically. Fans ship like FedEx.
28. Headcanon
A fan’s personal interpretation of a character or plot that isn’t confirmed in the story.
29. Crack Ship
A totally unlikely (but fun) romantic pairing. Think Goku x Pikachu. Yeah… it gets weird.
Japanese Language Terms You’ll Hear A Lot In Anime
30. Senpai
Senpai refers to an upperclassman, an older colleague, or a more experienced member within an organization, club, or school.
31. Kouhai
an underclassman who is a senpai’s junior. A newbie.
32. Sensei
Teacher or master—used for both school teachers and mentors.
33. Sama
A very polite honorific. Think royalty or someone you deeply respect.
34. San
A standard honorific, like “Mr.” or “Ms.”
35. Chan
Used for kids, close friends, or anything you find adorable.
36. Kun
Used for boys or younger males by peers or superiors.
37. Nani?!
Means “What?!” in English —but delivered with ultimate shock. Iconic.
38. Kawaii
Means “cute” and is used constantly in anime and by fans.
39. Sugoi
Means “amazing” or “wow!” Another common expression.
40. Yamete
Means “Stop!” Usually heard in intense scenes.
41. Arigatou
“Thank you.” Simple and sweet.
42. Itadakimasu
Said before eating. Shows gratitude for the meal.
43. Henshin
Transformation scene! Used in magical girl and superhero anime.
Anime Terms Related to the Animation Industry
44. Studio
Animation company that produces anime (like Studio Ghibli, MAPPA).
45. Seiyuu
Seiyuu is the Japanese term for a voice actor, particularly those who provide voices for anime, video games, and other media.
46. Key Animation
The process of drawing the most important poses and frames in an animation to define motion. It is an essential part of anime production.
47. OVA/ONA
OVA = Original Video Animation (DVD release). ONA = Original Net Animation (streaming).
48. Light Novel
Short novels, usually with anime-style illustrations. Many anime are based on these.
49. Visual Novel
Interactive games with text-based storytelling and anime visuals.
50. AMV
Anime Music Video—fan-made edits set to music.
Bonus Terms
1. OP & ED
Opening (OP) and Ending (ED) theme songs of anime episodes.
2. PV / Trailer
Promotional Video—basically a trailer for upcoming anime.
3. Arcs
Story segments or chapters within a series (like the Pain Arc in Naruto).
4. Cour
A season of anime, usually 12–13 episodes long.
Conclusion
Now, when someone says their waifu isn’t canon or complains about filler arcs, you’ll know exactly what they mean. The anime world is filled with so many glossary terms, expressive characters, and otaku like fans, and knowing about every slang just makes it more fun.
FAQs
1. What is the difference between shonen and seinen?
Shonen is aimed at younger male teens with lots of action and friendship, while seinen targets adult males with darker and more mature themes.
2. Why do people say “Nani?!” in anime so dramatically?
“Nani?!” means “What?!” and is often exaggerated for comedic or dramatic effect—it’s a classic anime moment.
3. What’s the deal with honorifics like “-san” and “-chan”?
They show respect, familiarity, or affection in Japanese culture, and using them helps you understand character relationships better.
4. Are all filler episodes bad?
Not always! Some fillers are fun, but others just stall the plot. It depends on the series and your patience level.
5. Is watching dubbed anime bad?
Not at all—it’s all about preference. Some purists prefer subs, but dubs have improved a lot over the years
