In this episode, Yumi shares a heartwarming story about her 17-year-old daughter’s summer vacation, which turned into an unexpected adventure on stage. What began as a small supporting role in a local production of the Percy Jackson Musical soon transformed into a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: being chosen as the lead. From the excitement of her very first audition to the challenges of daily rehearsals and the triumph of nine successful performances, Yumi reflects on the surprises, the hard work, and the “secret” behind what might seem like just good luck. A touching glimpse into family life, perseverance, and the magic of following one’s dreams.   KEY VOCABULARY: 新学期(しんがっき) — "New school term/semester." 新(しん) means "new," and 学期(がっき) means "school term" or "semester." 2週目位(しゅうめぐらい) — "Around the second week." 週(しゅう) means "week," 目(め) is an ordinal marker ("the second week"), and 位(くらい) means "approximately." Put together, it means "about the second week." 夏休(なつやす)みの間中夢中(あいだじゅうむちゅう) — "Absorbed the whole summer vacation." 夏休(なつやす)み means "summer vacation," 間中(あいだじゅ) means "throughout; the whole time," and 夢中(むちゅう) means "absorbed; obsessed; completely into something." 神話(しんわ) — "Myth; mythology." 神 means "god," and 話 means "story" or "tale." ティーン向(む)け — "For teenagers; aimed at teens." ティーン (from English "teenager") and 向(む)け ("intended for; geared toward"). Used for products, media, or content aimed at a teenage audience. 劇場(げきじょう) — "Theater." 劇 means "drama; play," and 場 means "place." Together, "place for drama" → 端役(はやく) — "Minor role; small part (in a play)." 端 means "edge" or "side," and 役 means "role." チョイ役(やく) — "Bit part; cameo role." チョイ is a colloquial shortening of ちょっと ("a little"), and 役(やく) means "role." Literally "a little role." 出演(しゅつえん) — "Appearance; performance." 出 means "to go out/appear," and 演(えん) means "performance." Together, "to appear on stage, in a show, or on screen." 主役(しゅやく) — "Leading role; main character." 主 means "main" or "primary," and 役(やく) means "role." 代役(だいやく) — "Substitute role; understudy." 代(だい) means "replacement/substitute," and 役(やく) means "role." Refers to someone who steps in to play a part instead of the original actor. 持(も)ち上(あ)がった — "Came up; arose." From the verb 持(も)ち上(あ)がる (to be raised; to arise). The past tense form 持(も)ち上(あ)がった means "came up" or "was brought up." Often used for topics, issues, or proposals that suddenly appear. 挑戦(ちょうせん) — "Challenge; attempt." 挑(ちょう) means "to challenge," and 戦 means "battle." Together, "to challenge oneself" or "to try." Can be used as a noun or as a verb with する (挑戦(ちょうせん)する = "to challenge/attempt"). 公演(こうえん) — "Performance (stage)." 公(こう) means "public," and 演(えん) means "performance." Refers specifically to a theatrical performance, musical, or play presented to an audience. 初舞台大成功(はつぶたいだいせいこう) — "Debut stage, great success." 初(はつ) means "first," 舞台(ぶたい) means "stage," 大(だい) means "big," and 成功(せいこう) means "success." Together, "a debut stage performance that was a big success." 滞(とどこお)りなく — "Smoothly; without delay." 滞(とどこお)り means "hindrance; delay; stagnation," and なく is the negative form ("without"). Expression meaning "without problems; smoothly." 本格的(ほんかくてき) — "Authentic; full-scale; serious." 本格(ほんかく) means "real thing; authentic style," and 的 turns it into an adjective. Refers to something being genuine, professional, or proper. 一応(いちおう) — "For the time being; sort of; just in case." Used to soften statements, meaning "tentatively," "to some extent," or "for the record." Can imply something is not perfect but sufficient. 非常(ひじょう) — "Extreme; very; extraordinary." 非 means "non-/not," and 常 means "usual." Literally "not usual" → "extraordinary; unusual; very." Often used in 非常(ひじょう)に ("extremely; very"). 女優(じょゆう)さん — "Actress." 女 means "woman," 優 means "performer/actor." さん is the polite suffix. Refers to a female actor. 素人(しろうと)さん — "Amateur; non-professional." 素 means "plain; unrefined," and 人 means "pers

In this episode, Yumi visits her family home in Japan, only to find it cold, boring, and isolating—with no internet, books, or entertainment. Feeling stuck in what she jokingly calls a "mini-prison," she unexpectedly finds joy in a Japanese radio show. Listener stories and nostalgic memories rekindle her love for storytelling and inspire her to share more fun tales with her audience. A charming reflection on boredom, discovery, and the power of laughter.     KEY VOCABULARY: 刑務所(けいむしょ) — "Prison." 刑(けい) means "punishment" or "penalty," and 務所(むしょ) means "workplace" or "institution." Together, this refers to a penal institution where people serve criminal sentences. 大(おお)げさ — "Exaggerated; over the top." This word is used to describe something overly dramatic or blown out of proportion. Often used to modestly admit to possible exaggeration, as in "maybe I’m exaggerating." ローカル局(きょく) — "Local TV/radio station." ローカル means "local" (borrowed from English), and 局(きょく) means "bureau" or "station." Together, it refers to a regional broadcasting station. 映(うつ)る — "To be reflected; to be broadcast." This verb often refers to something being visible on a screen or being shown on TV. In this context, it means "to be shown (on TV)." 高齢(こうれい) — "Elderly; advanced in age." A formal term used to describe older individuals. Common in written and official contexts. どういうわけか — "For some reason." A phrase used when the reason is unknown or unclear. It adds an air of mystery or puzzlement. 契約以上(けいやくいじょう) — "Beyond the contract limit." 契約(けいやく) means "contract" or "agreement," and 以上(いじょう) means "more than" or "beyond." Used when referring to exceeding agreed terms, such as data usage limits. 節約(せつやく) — "Saving; economizing." Often refers to cutting expenses or conserving resources. Used commonly in household and budget discussions. 放送局(ほうそうきょく) — "Broadcasting station." 放送(ほうそう) means "broadcast," and 局(きょく) is "bureau/station." This refers to a television or radio network office or station. 日曜天国(にちようてんごく) — "Sunday Heaven." The title of a radio program. 日曜(にちよう) means "Sunday," and 天国(てんごく) means "heaven" or "paradise." Together it conveys a cheerful, relaxing Sunday-themed show. 一部分(いちぶぶん) — "A part; a portion." 一部(いちぶ) means "one part," and 分(ぶん) also means "portion" or "segment." Emphasizes that only a partial section of something is being referred to. クスクス — "Chuckle." An onomatopoeia representing soft, suppressed laughter, like giggling to oneself. ゲラゲラ — "Loud laughter." Another onomatopoeia, this time representing uninhibited, hearty laughter. リスナーさん — "Listener (polite)." リスナー is a borrowed word meaning "listener," and さん adds a polite and respectful tone. おハガキ — "Letter/postcard (from a listener)." ハガキ means postcard, and お is an honorific prefix used to show politeness or respect toward the sender. 一言(ひとこと) — "One remark; a few words." Literally “one word,” but used to mean a short statement or comment. 帰(かえ)ってくるなり — "As soon as (someone) gets home." 帰(かえ)ってくる is "to come back home," and なり expresses an immediate sequence — something happened immediately upon return. 恐竜(きょうりゅう) — "Dinosaur." 体験談(たいけんだん) — "Personal story or experience." 体験(たいけん) means "experience," and 談(だん) means "story or talk." Together, it refers to a shared anecdote or testimony. いたんだよって — "They were there, you know?" いた is the past form of いる (to exist, for living things), んだ emphasizes explanation, よ adds assertion, and って is quoting a statement. 自身(じしん) — "Oneself; self." Often used to emphasize the subject personally, as in “his own experience.” 地元(じもと) — "Local; hometown." Refers to one’s home area or region. 案外人(あんがいひと) — "Surprisingly, people..." 案外(あんがい) means "unexpectedly" or "surprisingly," and 人(ひと) here refers to people. Often used to express that people may react in a way that’s not expected. 癒(いや)すもの — "Something that heals." 癒す means "to heal" or "soothe," and もの ("thing") indicates the object that performs the action. 気取(きど)りで — "With

In this episode, Yumi returns to Japan in the dead of winter, navigating the chill of an old house, the busyness of inheritance matters, and the quiet grief of family loss. Amid the hardship, she rediscovers the simple joy of soaking in a deep, warm bath. A heartfelt story of discomfort, tradition, and small comforts     KEY VOCABULARY: はや — "Already; soon." Often implies that time has passed quickly. In the phrase はや3週間(しゅうかん), it intensifies the feeling of how fast those three weeks went by. Common in conversational and narrative contexts. 相続(そうぞく) — "Inheritance." 相 means "mutual" or "together," and 続 means "to continue." Refers to the process of passing assets or rights from the deceased to their heirs. 手続(てつづ)きなど — "Procedures and such." 手続(てつづ)き means "procedure" or "formalities" (手(て) = hand, 続(つづ)き = continuation). The など ("etc.") softens the statement and implies that other tasks were also involved. ドタバタしていて — "Being hectic or frantic." ドタバタ is onomatopoeic, evoking loud, busy movement. していて is the て-form of する + the progressive いる, showing an ongoing hectic state. 追(お)われているような — "As if being chased." 追(お)われている is the passive progressive form of 追(お)う ("to chase"), indicating "being chased." ような compares the speaker’s situation to that of someone being chased. 断熱材(だんねつざい) — "Insulation material." 断 = to block/cut off, 熱 = heat, 材 = material. Used to describe materials that prevent the transfer of heat in buildings. ほぼ — "Almost; nearly." An adverb used to express approximation, indicating that two things are nearly the same (e.g., temperatures inside and outside the house). 襲(おそ)われる — "To be struck; attacked." Passive form of 襲(おそ)う ("to attack"). Here, used metaphorically to describe the sharp, overwhelming feeling of cold when leaving the futon. 着替(きが)えなくてはいけません — "Have to change clothes." 着替(きが)える = to change clothes. 〜なくてはいけません is a grammatical structure meaning "must" or "have to." Expresses necessity or obligation. 燃料代(ねんりょうだい) — "Fuel cost." 燃料(ねんりょう) = fuel, and 代(だい) = fee or cost. Together, refers to the expense of heating fuel. 電気代(でんきだい) — "Electricity bill." 電気(でんき) = electricity, 代(だい) = cost. Common compound used to refer to household electricity expenses. 非常(ひじょう)に — "Extremely; very." A formal adverb often used in written or polite speech to emphasize intensity. ままならず — "Unable to; not going as desired." Classical negative form of ままなる ("to go as intended"). This structure implies a frustrating lack of control, often due to circumstances. 唯一(ゆいいつ) — "Only; sole." A compound meaning "one" (唯) and "exist" (一), used to describe something that is one-of-a-kind or exclusive. 幸(さいわ)い — "Fortunately; luckily." Can function as both a noun and an adverb. Formal or literary in tone; expresses relief or unexpected fortune. ゆったり — "Leisurely; relaxed." An adverb describing a calm, spacious, and unhurried manner—often used for comfort or space, such as in a bath. 伸(の)ばして — "Stretching out." 伸(の)ばす = to stretch or extend. The て-form (伸(の)ばして) is used here to connect to the next verb 浸(つ)かる ("to soak"). 浸(つ)かる — "To soak; to immerse." Often used for soaking in water (like in a bath). The verb implies full bodily immersion and comfort. 野生(やせい)の猿(さる) — "Wild monkeys." 野生(やせい) = "wild," and 猿(さる) = "monkey." Describes animals living naturally in the wild, untouched by domestication. 気持(きも)ちよさそうな — "Looks pleasant/comfortable." 気持(きも)ち = feeling, よい = good, よさそう = seems good. The full phrase is the adjective form used to describe something that appears to feel good. 済(す)ます — "To get by with; to finish." The verb 済(す)ます means "to complete" or "to manage with." In context, it implies using only a shower instead of a bath, often out of convenience. 銭湯(せんとう) — "Public bathhouse." 銭 = money/coin, 湯 = hot water. A traditional, inexpensive facility where people go to bathe. 湯船(ゆぶね) — "Bathtub." 湯 = hot water, 船 = boat. Refers to the tub where one soaks, often large and communal in a public bathhouse. ジャグジー — "Ja

In this episode of Nihongo no Tane, Yumi shares a personal and heartfelt story about returning to Japan for her father’s funeral. From navigating unfamiliar funeral customs to reconnecting with family members she hadn’t seen in years, Yumi reflects on the busy, emotional days that followed her father’s passing. She also talks about what made the ceremony special and how her father’s long life in his hometown was filled with friendship and meaning. A touching episode with insights into Japanese culture and family life.     KEY VOCABULARY: 私(わたくし)ごと — "A personal matter." 私 is read here as わたくし, a formal and humble reading of "I" or "private," and ごと (事) means "matter" or "thing." A humble expression to refer to one's personal affairs, often used in formal or respectful speech. お葬式(そうしき) — "Funeral." 葬 means "to bury" and 式 means "ceremony." The prefix お adds politeness to the word. およそ — "About; approximately." A formal adverb used to express an estimated quantity or duration. 脳梗塞(のうこうそく) — "Stroke; cerebral infarction." 脳 means "brain," 梗 means "blockage," and 塞 means "obstruction," referring to a blocked blood vessel in the brain. 麻痺(まひ) — "Paralysis; numbness." 麻 means "numb" or "hemp," and 痺 means "numbness" or "paralysis," used for loss of movement or sensation. 車椅子(くるまいす) — "Wheelchair." 車(くるま) means "vehicle," and 椅子(いす) means "chair," literally describing a wheeled chair. 癌(がん)になり — "Developed cancer." 癌 means "cancer," and 〜になる ("to become") is used here in its ます-stem form なり, which connects to the next verb (手術(しゅじゅつ)をしまして); this is common in narrative style to maintain flow. 手術(しゅじゅつ) — "Surgery; operation." 手 means "hand," and 術 means "technique" or "skill," referring to a medical procedure. 老人(ろうじん)ホーム — "Nursing home." 老人(ろうじん) means "elderly person" (老 = "old," 人 = "person"), and ホーム is "home" in katakana, meaning care facility. 出(で)ることもできず — "Could not go out." 出(で)る means "to go out," こと turns the verb into a noun, できる means "can," and 〜ず is the classical negative of 〜ない, so できず = "could not (and...)"—implying an ongoing state or sequence. そろって — "All together; as a group." From 揃(そろ)う ("to be gathered/complete"), in て-form to connect actions or indicate simultaneous action. 浸(ひた)っている — "To be immersed (in something)." 浸る means "to soak or immerse," and the 〜ている form indicates a continuous state—here, emotionally immersed. 葬儀屋(そうぎや)さん — "Funeral director." 葬儀(そうぎ) means "funeral service" (葬 = "to bury," 儀 = "ceremony"), 屋 means "shop/person in charge," and さん adds respect. ああだこうだ — "This and that; back and forth." A colloquial expression representing indecision or a flurry of decisions, often used when things are hectic. お坊(ぼう)さん — "Buddhist monk." 坊 refers to a Buddhist monk (originally meaning “boy” or “temple person”), and さん adds politeness. お布施(ふせ) — "Offering to a monk or temple." 布 means "to distribute" or "cloth," 施 means "to give" or "bestow," and together refer to a monetary offering. 年老(としお)いた母(はは) — "Elderly mother." 年老(としお)いた is the past form of 年老(としお)いる ("to grow old," 年 = "year," 老 = "old"), and 母 means "mother"—a respectful phrase for one’s aging mother. 費用(ひよう) — "Cost; expense." 費 means "expense," and 用 means "use" or "purpose"—together meaning "cost required for something." 祭壇(さいだん) — "Altar." 祭 means "ritual" or "festival," and 壇 means "platform"—a ceremonial platform often decorated in religious events. 豪華(ごうか) — "Luxurious; splendid." 豪 means "magnificent" or "extravagant," and 華 means "splendor" or "flower," together describing something rich or ornate. 昭和(しょうわ) — "Showa era." 昭 means "bright" and 和 means "peace," referring to the Japanese era from 1926 to 1989 (Showa 12 = 1937). 末(すえ)っ子(こ) — "Youngest child." 末 means "end," and 子 means "child." The small っ adds emphasis to show it's the last-born. 高齢(こうれい) — "Old age; elderly." 高 means "high," and 齢 means "age," a respectful and formal term for advanced age. 故郷(ふるさと) — "Hometown." 故 means "former" or "deceased," and 郷 mean

In this episode of Nihongo no Tane, Yumi shares a shopping trip with her daughter that started with a simple plan to buy one pair of exercise pants but ended with three! She also talks about how their dog, Maro, played a role in this unexpected shopping spree. Along the way, Yumi reflects about how English words get adapted into Japanese. Tune in for a lighthearted and relatable episode filled with everyday moments and language insights!     KEY VOCABULARY: いわゆる — "So-called; what is commonly known as." Used to introduce a term or phrase that may be more familiar or widely recognized. 愛犬(あいけん) — "Beloved dog; pet dog." 愛(あい) means "love," and 犬(けん) means "dog," together forming a word that expresses affection for one's pet dog. 食(た)べられてしまいまして — "Ended up being eaten (unfortunately)." 食(た)べられる is the passive form of 食(た)べる ("to eat"), indicating that something was eaten by something else. 〜てしまう adds a nuance of regret or unintended consequence. ビリビリ — "Torn apart; ripped to shreds; electrically tingling." An onomatopoeia that can describe something being ripped apart or the sensation of tingling, like from static electricity. 状態(じょうたい) — "Condition; state; situation." Used to describe the status or condition of something at a given moment. 我慢(がまん) — "Endurance; patience; putting up with something." Refers to enduring discomfort or inconvenience without complaining. 回数(かいすう) — "Number of times; frequency." 回 refers to an instance of an action, and 数 means "number," so together, it indicates how often something happens. 長(なが)い丈(たけ) — "Long length (of clothing)." 長(なが)い means "long," and 丈(たけ) refers to the length of clothing, such as pants or skirts. ふと — "Suddenly; unexpectedly; without thinking." An adverb used when something comes to mind or happens spontaneously. どうせ — "Anyway; in any case; after all (with a nuance of resignation)." Often used when expressing that an outcome is inevitable or when giving up on something. 短(たん)パン — "Shorts; short pants." 短(たん) means "short," and パン is short for "pants," forming a casual way to refer to shorts. 際(さい) — "On the occasion of; when." A formal word used to indicate a specific time or situation when something happens. 袖(そで)を通(とお)してみる — "To try on clothes (literally: to pass one's arms through the sleeves)." 袖(そで) means "sleeve," and 通(とお)す means "to pass through," making this phrase a natural way to say "try on clothing." ぱっと — "At a glance; quickly; suddenly." An adverb used to describe quick actions or immediate impressions. あら印象(いんしょう) — "Oh, the impression (has changed)!" あら is an exclamation expressing surprise, and 印象(いんしょう) means "impression," often used when something looks different from expectations. ど忘(わす)れしてしまって — "Completely forgot (momentarily)." ど忘(わす)れ is when you suddenly forget something you usually know. The 〜てしまう adds a nuance of unintended or unfortunate forgetting. 何(なに)だっけ — "What was it again?" A casual phrase used when trying to remember something you forgot. スペリング — "Spelling." A loanword from English, used in Japanese to refer to how a word is written letter by letter. ほぼ — "Almost; nearly." Used when something is close to but not entirely complete or exact. 早口言葉(はやくちことば) — "Tongue twister." 早口(はやくち) means "fast-talking," and 言葉(ことば) means "word(s)," together referring to phrases that are difficult to pronounce quickly.   For upper beginners to intermediates. Listen to the short podcast and then answer the comprehension questions on the website: https://thejapanesepage.com/nihongonotane-index/ Take a quiz on this episode here: https://thejapanesepage.com/podcast-nihongonotane-168 If you are a Makoto+ member, you can find the transcript, English translation, key vocabulary, and a downloadable PDF for printing: https://MakotoPlus.com/podcast-nihongonotane-168-m -- Become a Makoto+ member and get show notes with a complete transcript, translation, key vocabulary, and a downloadable PDF. www.MakotoPlus.com

In this episode of Nihongo no Tane, Yumi shares her recent conversations with her mother and younger sister in Japan. She reflects on how her elderly mother has developed a habit of one-sided conversations, often hanging up as soon as she’s finished speaking. She also considers her own role as a listener rather than a talker and how being a good listener can be a rare and valuable trait. Tune in for an insightful and relatable discussion on family dynamics, communication, and the importance of listening.     KEY VOCABULARY: 超(こ)えて高齢(こうれい) — Exceeding old age; being very elderly. 超(こ)えて is the te-form of 超(こ)える, meaning "to exceed" or "to go beyond." 高齢(こうれい) means "old age" or "elderly." 一方的(いっぽうてき)に — One-sidedly; unilaterally; without considering the other person. 一方的(いっぽうてき) means "one-sided" or "lacking reciprocity." に is an adverbial particle making it function as an adverb. まどろっこしい — Frustratingly slow; tedious; sluggish. An adjective describing something that feels slow or inefficient, causing impatience. 返(かえ)そう — Let’s return (something); Let’s respond. 返(かえ)す means "to return" or "to give back," often used for responses. 〜そう is a volitional form indicating intention, like "let’s" or "I will." 終(お)わらされてしまう — To be forced to end (unwillingly); to be made to stop. 終(お)わらされる is the passive causative form of 終(お)わる ("to end"), meaning "to be made to end." 〜てしまう expresses completion or regret, often implying something happened against one's will. 不快(ふかい)なもの — Something unpleasant; something uncomfortable. 不快(ふかい) means "unpleasant" or "discomfort." な makes 不快(ふかい) function as an adjective. もの means "thing," referring to something abstract (a feeling, experience, etc.). 話(はな)しぶりに — Way of talking; manner of speaking. 話(はな)しぶり is a noun meaning "speaking style" or "way of talking." に is a particle indicating the manner or context of something. 不満(ふまん) — Dissatisfaction; complaint; discontent. 不(ふ) is a prefix meaning "not" or "negative." 満(まん) means "full" or "satisfaction," so together, 不満(ふまん) means "not satisfied." ぶちまけてくれました — (They) vented; (They) spilled everything out. ぶちまける is a slangy, emphatic verb meaning "to pour out one's feelings" or "to reveal everything." 〜てくれました indicates that the action was done for the speaker’s benefit. うんざりしていたみたい — Seemed to be fed up; looked tired of it. うんざりする means "to be fed up" or "to be sick of something." していた is the past progressive form, indicating ongoing frustration. みたい is a suffix meaning "seems like" or "appears to be." 小一時間(こいちじかん) — About an hour; nearly an hour. 小(こ) in this case means "slightly less than." 一時間(いちじかん) means "one hour." 態度(たいど) — Attitude; manner; behavior. A noun referring to a person’s demeanor, approach, or attitude in a situation. 聞(き)き役(やく)に回(まわ)ること — Taking on the listener’s role; becoming the listener. 聞(き)き役(やく) means "listener role," someone who listens rather than talks. に回(まわ)る means "to take on the role of" or "to turn into." こと turns the phrase into a noun ("the act of taking on the listener role"). 発信(はっしん)する — To transmit; to send out information. 発信(はっしん) means "transmission," often used for communication or broadcasting. する makes it a verb ("to transmit" or "to share information"). 近況(きんきょう) — Recent situation; current status. 近(きん) means "near" or "recent." 況(きょう) means "condition" or "situation," so together, it means "recent condition" or "current updates." 語(かた)る — To talk about; to tell (a story); to narrate. A formal or literary verb meaning "to tell" or "to recount." 案外(あんがい) — Unexpectedly; surprisingly. 案(あん) means "plan" or "idea." 外(がい) means "outside," so together, it suggests something turning out differently than expected. ほっとする — To feel relieved; to feel at ease. ほっと is an onomatopoeic word for relief or relaxation. する turns it into a verb, meaning "to feel relieved."   For upper beginners to intermediates. Listen to the short podcast and then answer the comprehension questions on the website: https://thej

In this episode of Nihongo no Tane, Yumi takes us back to a beloved Japanese custom that is slowly fading: the “New Year Film” tradition. She recalls how families would flock to theaters to watch holiday releases like Otoko wa Tsurai yo, Tsuribaka Nisshi, and even Godzilla. Yumi fondly remembers her father’s love for these films and reflects on how the genre has evolved, with fewer people nowadays making special New Year trips to the cinema. Instead, she points out how streaming services and a changing culture have shifted the way people experience movies. Tune in for an engaging look at the past and present of celebrating the New Year with film in Japan, and hear Yumi’s thoughts on what she and her family chose to watch this year!     KEY VOCABULARY: 正月映画(しょうがつえいが) — New Year's movie; films typically released around the New Year's season in Japan. 「正月(しょうがつ)」(New Year) + 「映画(えいが)」(movie). ジャンル — Genre; a category or type, often used to classify movies, books, etc. 年末年始(ねんまつねんし) — Year-end and New Year's; the period encompassing the end of December and the beginning of January. 「年末(ねんまつ)」(year-end) + 「年始(ねんし)」(beginning of the year). 上映(じょうえい)される 映画(えいが) — Movies being screened; films that are shown or exhibited in theaters. 「上映(じょうえい)」(screening/showing) is combined with 「される」(passive form of する, "to do"), meaning "to be screened." 後半(こうはん) — The latter half; the second half of a period, such as a month or year. 「後(こう)」(later/after) + 「半(はん)」(half). 封切(ふうき)られる映画(えいが) — Movies being released; films that premiere or are first shown in theaters. 「封切(ふうぎ)る」(to release a movie) in its passive form, 「封切(ふうき)られる」(to be released). 初(はつ)もうで — Hatsumōde; the first shrine visit of the New Year, a traditional Japanese custom. 「初(はつ)」(first) + 「もうで」(visit to a shrine or temple). シリーズ — Series; a set of related works, often movies, books, or TV shows, released in succession. 監督(かんとく) — Director; the person responsible for overseeing the creation of a movie or other production. 主演(しゅえん) — Leading role; the main actor or actress in a film or production. 「主(しゅ)」(main) + 「演(えん)」(performance). 日誌(にっし) — Diary or journal; often used in titles to indicate a record of events, such as Tsuribaka Nisshi (The Diary of a Fishing Fool). 「日(にっ)」(day) + 「誌(し)」(record). 公開(こうかい)される — To be released or made public; often refers to movies or works being available to the public. 「公開(こうかい)」(release/opening to the public) is combined with 「される」(passive form of する, "to do"), meaning "to be released." 以前(いぜん) — Previously; in the past or before a certain point in time. 平社員(ひらしゃいん) — Ordinary employee; a worker without managerial or senior responsibilities. 「平(ひら)」(plain) + 「社員(しゃいん)」(employee). 大企業(だいきぎょう) — Large company; a big corporation or enterprise. 「大(だい)」(big) + 「企業(きぎょう)」(enterprise). 日本各地(にほんかくち) — Various places in Japan; throughout different regions of the country. 「日本(にほん)」(Japan) + 「各地(かくち)」(various places). 実家(じっか) — One's family home; the house where one grew up or their parents' home. 「実(じっ)」(real/true) + 「家(か)」(home/house). 役(やく) — Role; a part or character played by an actor in a movie or production. 終了(しゅうりょう) — Completion or conclusion; the end of an event, series, or activity. 「終(しゅう)」(end) + 「了(りょう)」(finish). 時期(じき) — Period or season; a specific time frame. 「時(じ)」(time) + 「期(き)」(period). 過去形(かこけい) — Past tense; a grammatical form indicating actions or states in the past. 「過去(かこ)」(past) + 「形(けい)」(form). 定番(ていばん) — Standard or classic; something considered a staple or go-to choice in a particular context. 「定」(fixed) + 「番」(number/order). なくなりつつあります — Is gradually disappearing; indicates something is in the process of vanishing or declining. 「なくなる」(to disappear) in its ます-stem form, 「なくなり」, followed by 「つつある」(indicates an ongoing process). 時代(じだい)の流(なが)れ — Flow of the times; changes or trends that come with the passing of time. 「時代(じだい)」(era) + 「の」(possessive marker) + 「流(なが)れ」(flow). ご覧(らん)になりました — (Honorific) Did you watch; a

In this episode of "Nihongo no Tane," Yumi reflects on her experience welcoming the New Year amidst a busy holiday season. She shares insights into traditional Japanese New Year customs, from preparing osechi ryori to watching NHK’s Kohaku Uta Gassen and giving otoshidama. Despite these celebrations, Yumi explains why this year felt less "new" to her, revealing how a cluttered home and a packed schedule impacted her perspective. Tune in to explore the contrasts between Japanese and American New Year traditions and discover Yumi’s goals for the year ahead!     KEY VOCABULARY: ばたばた — Hustling and bustling; being in a hurry or busy state. 支払(しはら)いを済(す)ませたり — 支払(しはら)い: payment; を: [object marker]; 済(す)ませたり: settling or completing (済(す)ませる in たり-form, "to settle/finish"). Completing payments or taking care of payments. おせち料理(りょうり) — Traditional Japanese New Year’s cuisine, often served in a multi-tiered box. 大晦日(おおみそか) — New Year’s Eve (December 31). 紅白歌合戦(こうはくうたがっせん) — 紅白(こうはく): red and white (symbolic colors of Japan); 歌合戦(うたがっせん): singing contest. "Kōhaku Uta Gassen," a famous Japanese New Year’s Eve singing contest. ゆったり — Feeling relaxed; leisurely. 寝正月(ねしょうがつ) — 寝(ね): sleep; 正月(しょうがつ): New Year. Spending the New Year’s holidays lazing around at home, often sleeping. ゴロゴロ — Lounging around; idling; onomatopoeia for rolling or loafing. フレッシュ — Fresh (a loanword from English). 心当(こころあ)たりがありました — 心当(こころあ)たり: having an idea or clue about something; が: [subject marker]; ありました: there was; had. "I had a clue/idea about it." とっ散(ち)らかっていた — とっ散(ち)らかる: to be messy; scattered everywhere; いた: past progressive form (was messy). "It was all over the place/messy." 日常(にちじょう) — Everyday life; routine. おうち — Home (casual or polite term for 家(うち), house). 感覚(かんかく) — Sense; sensation; feeling. お雑煮(ぞうに) — Traditional Japanese soup with rice cakes (mochi), eaten during New Year’s celebrations. お屠蘇(とそ) — Spiced sake traditionally drunk during New Year’s for good health. 初詣(はつもうで) — 初(はつ): first; 詣: pilgrimage/visit. First shrine visit of the New Year. 初日(はつひ)の出(で) — 初日(はつひ): first sunrise; の出(で): appearance; rising. The first sunrise of the New Year. お年玉(としだま) — Money given to children as a New Year’s gift. 年賀状(ねんがじょう) — 年賀(ねんが): New Year’s greetings; 状(じょう): letter/card. New Year’s greeting card. 書(か)き初(ぞ)め — 書(か)き: writing (noun form of 書(か)く, to write); 初(はじ)め: first time; beginning. First calligraphy of the year. お習字(しゅうじ) — お: honorific prefix; 習字(しゅうじ): calligraphy. Calligraphy practice. 抱負(ほうふ) — Resolution; aspiration; ambition. 早速(さっそく) — Immediately; at once; without delay. 下(した)っ腹(はら)が出(で)てきました — 下(した)っ腹(ぱら): lower belly; が: [subject marker]; 出(で)てきました: started to stick out. "My lower belly started sticking out."   For upper beginners to intermediates. Listen to the short podcast and then answer the comprehension questions on the website: https://thejapanesepage.com/nihongonotane-index/ Take a quiz on this episode here: https://thejapanesepage.com/podcast-nihongonotane-165 If you are a Makoto+ member, you can find the transcript, English translation, key vocabulary, and a downloadable PDF for printing: https://MakotoPlus.com/podcast-nihongonotane-165-m -- Become a Makoto+ member and get show notes with a complete transcript, translation, key vocabulary, and a downloadable PDF. www.MakotoPlus.com

In this episode of "Nihongo no Tane," Yumi shares delightful stories about Pon-chan, the newest member of her family—a curious and calm kitten! She recounts how Pon-chan has grown from a tiny ball of fluff to a playful companion with a big personality. From quiet visits to the vet to bonding moments with her daughter and dog Maro-chan, Pon-chan’s gentle yet bold nature continues to charm everyone around him. Tune in to hear about his adventures and discover why Yumi believes he’s destined to be a “big deal”!     KEY VOCABULARY: 順調(じゅんちょう) — Smooth; favorable; progressing well (a noun or na-adjective describing something that is going as planned or steadily growing). すくすくと — Quickly and healthily; thriving (adverb describing the steady growth of children, animals, or plants). 生後(せいご) — Post-birth; the time since birth. Often used to describe the age of babies or young animals, as in "4 months old." 手(て)のひら — The palm of one’s hand; the inner part of the hand. 両手(りょうて) — Both hands; referring to using or involving both hands. 抱(かか)える — To hold in one’s arms; to carry (refers to holding something close, often with both hands or arms). オス — Male (animal); used to specify the gender of animals. 大物(おおもの)ぶり — Signs of greatness; showing composure or a dignified presence (ぶり indicates the state or manner of 大物(おおもの), "a big deal" or "important figure"). 一言(ひとこと) — A single word; one remark or sound. 不安(ふあん)がって — Anxiously; showing unease or worry (te-form of 不安(ふあん)がる, meaning "to feel anxious"). そわそわ — Restlessly; nervously (onomatopoeic word describing someone who cannot settle down due to anxiety or excitement). 様子(ようす) — State; condition; appearance; manner (refers to the way someone or something looks or behaves). 態度(たいど) — Attitude; demeanor; behavior (refers to how someone acts or presents themselves). 駆(か)け寄(よ)ってみたり — Running up to; approaching quickly (te-form of 駆(か)け寄(よ)る, "to run up," combined with みたり, which lists actions like "trying to do" something). 吠(ほ)えたりしていました — Was barking or howling (たり-form of 吠(ほ)える, "to bark," listing actions; していました indicates a past ongoing or repeated action). おやおや — Oh my!; Well, well! (an exclamation used to express mild surprise or curiosity). 注射(ちゅうしゃ) — Injection; a shot (medical term for administering medicine via a needle). 検査(けんさ) — Examination; inspection; test (medical term referring to tests or checkups). 予防注射(よぼうちゅうしゃ) — Vaccination; preventive injection (a medical shot given to prevent diseases). ウンチ — Poop; feces (a casual, childlike term for stool). 平気(へいき)な顔(かお) — Calm face; composed expression (describes someone showing no signs of worry or fear). 暴(あば)れたりもせず — Without struggling; not acting violently (たり-form of 暴(あば)れる, "to struggle," combined with もせず, meaning "without even doing"). 大(おお)らかで冷静(れいせい)な — Easygoing and calm; composed (な-adjectives 大(おお)らか, "easygoing," and 冷静(れいせい), "calm/composed," connected with で to describe a relaxed and unshaken personality). 親(おや)ばか — Doting parent; overly proud or indulgent parent (describes a parent who boasts about or adores their child excessively). おもらししちゃった — Had an accident; wet oneself (おもらし, "an accident," plus しちゃった, casual form of してしまった, expressing an unintentional or regrettable action. 期待(きたい)を込(こ)めて — With high hopes; full of expectations (込(こ)めて, te-form of 込(こ)める, "to put into," showing an action done with emotion or intention). About 大物(おおもの) The term 大物(おおもの) is often used in Japanese to describe someone of significant stature, importance, or influence in a particular field. It's a versatile word that carries a sense of admiration and respect but can also be used humorously or sarcastically depending on the context.   Meanings and Usage: A Big Shot or VIP             - When used sincerely, 大物(おおもの) refers to someone who is influential or accomplished.             - Example:                    あの人(ひと)は政治(せいじ)の世界(せかい)では大物(おおもの)です。 (That person is a big shot in the world of politics.)   A Person with

In this episode of "Nihongo no Tane," Yumi introduces a new, furry member of her family —a playful and adorable kitten named Pon-chan! She shares the heartwarming story of how this little ball of fluff captured her heart during a church gathering and quickly became part of the family. From its charming "sock-like" paws to its lively antics, Pon-chan has brought new energy and joy to Yumi’s home. Tune in to hear about the kitten’s journey, its growing bond with other pets, and the simple happiness a tiny companion can bring!     KEY VOCABULARY: 加(くわ)わりました — Joined; was added (past tense of 加(くわ)わる, meaning "to join" or "to be added"). 生後(せいご) — Post-birth; the time since birth. Often used to describe the age of babies or young animals, as in "2 months old." ふわっふわっ — Soft and fluffy; an onomatopoeic expression describing a light, fluffy texture or feeling. オス — Male (used for animals). 全体(ぜんたい) — The whole; entirety. Refers to something as a whole, like the overall appearance. 足先(あしさき) — Tips of the feet; the ends or extremities of the feet. ハチワレ — A cat pattern where the fur on the face is divided in the shape of the kanji 八(はち) (hachi, meaning "eight"), creating a "V" shape. 貫禄(かんろく) — Dignity; presence; an aura of authority or maturity, often associated with animals or people that appear strong or confident. 柄(がら) — Pattern; design. Refers to markings or patterns, often on animals or fabrics. 経緯(けいい) — Circumstances; details of how something happened. Often used when describing the background or sequence of events. 間中(あいだじゅう) — Throughout; during the entire time. For example, "throughout the meeting." 丸々(まるまる) — Entirely; fully; completely. Also used to describe something plump or round. 今引(いまひ)き取(と)った — Now adopted; recently taken in. A combination of 今 (now) and 引(ひ)き取(と)る (to take in, adopt, or receive). すっかり — Completely; thoroughly. Indicates a full or complete state of something. 居心地(いごこち) — Comfort; the feeling of ease or comfort in a place. Often paired with よい (good) or わるい (bad). もらって頂(ちょう)だい — "Please accept it." A polite way of requesting someone to take or receive something. ポンポン — Plump; round. Often used to describe a rounded belly, like a cat's. スクスク — Growing quickly and healthily; an onomatopoeic expression describing steady growth, often of children or animals. 先住(せんじゅう) — Previous resident; used to describe animals (or sometimes people) that were already living somewhere before others arrived. 仲良(なかよ)くなりつつあります — Are gradually becoming close; used to describe forming good relationships over time. [仲良(なかよ)く getting along well; なりつつあります is becoming; a formal way of describing an ongoing change: Formed by なり (ます-stem of なる, "to become"), つつ ("while" or "in the process of"), and あります ("exists"). It means "is in the process of becoming" or "is gradually changing."] 覗(のぞ)き込(こ)む — To peek in; to look into something closely or intently. 喉(のど)をゴロゴロ鳴(な)らしながら — While purring; literally, "while making a rumbling sound in the throat." Refers to the sound cats make when they are content. 幸福(こうふく) — Happiness; bliss; a state of contentment and joy.   For upper beginners to intermediates. Listen to the short podcast and then answer the comprehension questions on the website: https://thejapanesepage.com/nihongonotane-index/ Take a quiz on this episode here: https://thejapanesepage.com/podcast-nihongonotane-163 If you are a Makoto+ member, you can find the transcript, English translation, key vocabulary, and a downloadable PDF for printing: https://MakotoPlus.com/podcast-nihongonotane-163-m -- Become a Makoto+ member and get show notes with a complete transcript, translation, key vocabulary, and a downloadable PDF. www.MakotoPlus.com

In this episode of "Nihongo no Tane," Yumi shares her experience of navigating hurricane season in Florida. From power outages to the community’s resilience, discover how locals handle the intense storms. Yumi reflects on the challenges, unexpected routines, and even a bit of "hurricane weight gain" that come with these events. Tune in for a glimpse into life during storm season and the strength of Floridian spirit!   KEY VOCABULARY: 通(とお)り過(す)ぎました — passed through; went past (通(とお)り: passage, 過(す)ぎる: to pass, ました: polite past form) 幸(さいわ)い — fortunately; luckily (used to express relief in a potentially negative situation) 被害(ひがい) — damage; harm (damage caused by disaster, accident, etc.) 遭(あ)われた方(かた) — those who were affected (遭(あ)う: to suffer or encounter (in passive form 遭(あ)われた), 方(かた): polite term for person or people) 停電(ていでん) — power outage; blackout (停(てい): stop, 電(でん): electricity, referring to interruption of power supply) 発電機(はつでんき) — generator (発電(はつでん): generation of electricity, 機(き): machine, referring to a power generator) たくましい — resilient; strong-willed (describes someone or something tough and able to withstand difficult situations) 70代後半(だいこうはん)ぐらい — in their late 70s (70代(だい): in their 70s, 後半(こうはん): second half, indicating the late 70s) ボキッと — with a snap; crack (onomatopoeia that mimics the sound of something breaking abruptly) 対処(たいしょ)する — to deal with; to handle (used for managing a problem or challenging situation) いざ — when it comes to it; when the moment arrives (used to introduce a real or important situation when one must act) 不自由(ふじゆう)な — inconvenient; restricted (不(ふ): prefix for "not," 自由(じゆう): freedom, describing an uncomfortable or limited situation) 張(は)り切(き)る — to be eager; to be enthusiastic 避難所(ひなんじょ) — evacuation shelter (避難(ひなん): evacuation, 所(しょ): place; referring to shelters designated for emergencies) 駆(か)けつけて — rushing to (someone's aid); hurrying over (駆(か)けつける: to rush to a place, often in response to an emergency) 引(ひ)っ張(ぱ)り出(だ)してきて — to pull out and bring (引(ひ)っ張(ぱ)り出(だ)す: to pull out, and きて: indicating bringing it to the current situation) 大型化(おおがたか) — becoming larger; increasing in size (大型(おおがた): large size, 化(か): -ification, describing a trend of something growing in size) 生(い)き抜(ぬ)いて — to survive through; to make it through (生(い)き抜(ぬ)く: to persevere and survive adverse situations) 生(い)き残(のこ)る — to survive; to remain alive (often in difficult or life-threatening situations) ハリケーン太り — hurricane weight gain (ハリケーン: hurricane, 太(ふと)り: from 太(ふと)る, meaning "to gain weight," referring to weight gained during hurricane season) おやつ — snacks (light snacks or treats between meals) 買(か)い込(こ)む — to stock up on; to buy in bulk (to buy large quantities of something, especially to prepare for a shortage) 体重(たいじゅう) — body weight (体(たい): body, 重(じゅう): weight) For upper beginners to intermediates. Listen to the short podcast and then answer the comprehension questions on the website: https://thejapanesepage.com/nihongonotane-index/ Take a quiz on this episode here: https://thejapanesepage.com/podcast-nihongonotane-162 If you are a Makoto+ member, you can find the transcript, English translation, key vocabulary, and a downloadable PDF for printing: https://MakotoPlus.com/podcast-nihongonotane-162-m -- Become a Makoto+ member and get show notes with a complete transcript, translation, key vocabulary, and a downloadable PDF. www.MakotoPlus.com  

In this episode of “Nihongo no Tane,” join Yumi as she shares her visit to her elegant piano teacher’s home. Discover how her refined lifestyle, surrounded by antiques, reflects her sophistication, from music to furniture. Yumi reflects on the importance of keeping antiques in good condition, contrasting her teacher's approach with other personal experiences. This episode will transport you to a world of elegance and nostalgia!   KEY VOCABULARY: 塊(かたまり) — embodiment; personification (used metaphorically to describe someone who is the "essence" of something) 弾(ひ)くだけではなくて — not only playing (弾(ひ)く: to play (a string instrument), だけ: only, ではなくて: not only) 演奏(えんそう)されるそうです — it seems it will be performed (演奏(えんそう): performance, される: passive form (to be performed), そうです: it seems) 現代(げんだい) — modern times; contemporary さらさらと — smoothly; fluently 品々(しなじな) — various items; goods (plural of 品(しな), meaning "item") もうとうに — long ago; long before (indicating something that happened or was done long ago, often emphasizing it's well in the past) 張(は)り直(なお)した — re-stretched; re-tightened (張(は)り: to stretch; to tighten, 直(なお)した: fixed; redone) 色合(いろあ)い — color tone; hue 刺繍(ししゅう)もほどけたところ — parts where the embroidery has unraveled (刺繍(ししゅう): embroidery, も: also, ほどけた: unraveled, ところ: part; place) 品質(ひんしつ) — quality 保(たも)たれている — is maintained; is preserved (保(たも)たれる: to be maintained, ている: ongoing state) イマイチ — not so good; lacking ボロボロで — worn-out; tattered 狂(くる)ってしまってるんです — it has gone out of tune; it’s broken (狂(くる)う: to go crazy or to be out of tune, てしまってる: regrettably; completely) (Note: In this context, since we are talking about an instrument, "狂(くる)う" refers to the sound being out of tune or off-pitch.) しかも — moreover; besides 見(み)かけます — to see; to come across (polite form of 見(み)かける) ピカピカ — shiny; sparkling 新品(しんぴん) — brand new 雑(ざつ)に扱(あつか)われてるなっていう雰囲気(ふんいき)の車(くるま) — a car that feels like it's being treated carelessly (雑(ざつ)に: carelessly, 扱(あつか)われてる: being treated, なっていう: like; that feels, 雰囲気(ふんいき): atmosphere, 車(くるま): car) ただただ置(お)きっぱなしにしてある — just left as it is (ただただ: just, 置(お)きっぱなし: left as is, にしてある: to have been left) 保存(ほぞん)する — to preserve; to store (保存(ほぞん): preservation, する: verb marker meaning "to do")   For upper beginners to intermediates. Listen to the short podcast and then answer the comprehension questions on the website: https://thejapanesepage.com/nihongonotane-index/ Take a quiz on this episode here: https://thejapanesepage.com/podcast-nihongonotane-161 If you are a Makoto+ member, you can find the transcript, English translation, key vocabulary, and a downloadable PDF for printing: https://MakotoPlus.com/podcast-nihongonotane-161-m -- Become a Makoto+ member and get show notes with a complete transcript, translation, key vocabulary, and a downloadable PDF. www.MakotoPlus.com

In this episode of "Nihongo no Tane," Yumi shares her delightful encounter with a professional pianist whose lifestyle is a page out of history. Explore a home adorned with Victorian elegance, complete with a century-old telephone still in use! Immerse yourself in this captivating tale of classical music, vintage fashion, and timeless grace.   KEY VOCABULARY: 教会(きょうかい) — church 個人(こじん) — individual; personal 音楽(おんがく)を専攻(せんこう)されて — to specialize in music (音楽(おんがく): music, を: object marker, 専攻(せんこう)されて: to specialize in - honorific passive form of 専攻(せんこう)する) 憧(あこが)れているところがあって — there is something that I admire (憧(あこが)れている: admiring; longing for, ところ: place; aspect, が: subject marker, あって: there is; existing) なんか — somehow; kind of (informal) お誘(さそ)い — invitation (honorific form of 誘(さそ)い) 19世紀(せいき) — nineteenth century (19: nineteenth, 世紀(せいき): century) 服装(ふくそう) — clothing; attire 非常(ひじょう) — extremely; very 膨(ふく)らんだパフスリーブのブラウス — puffy puff-sleeve blouse (膨(ふく)らんだ: puffy, パフスリーブ: puff sleeve, の: possessive marker, ブラウス: blouse) 長(なが)い裾(すそ)の広(ひろ)がったスカート — long, flared skirt (長(なが)い: long, 裾(すそ): hem; skirt edge, の: possessive marker, 広(ひろ)がった: spread out; flared, スカート: skirt) 和風(わふう) — Japanese style 日本風(にほんふう) — Japanese style (synonym of 和風(わふう)) 受話器(じゅわき) — telephone receiver 40歳代(さいだい)ぐらい — about in one’s forties (40歳代(さいだい): in one’s forties, ぐらい: approximately) 連発(れんぱつ)する — to repeat continuously; to fire in succession そっくり — exactly like; spitting image 口癖(くちぐせ) — habitual phrase; pet saying 私(わたし)にとっては — for me (私(わたし): I, にとって: for (someone); from the point of view of, は: topic marker) 出会(であ)えて — to be able to meet (出会(であ)う: to meet, in its て-form)   For upper beginners to intermediates. Listen to the short podcast and then answer the comprehension questions on the website: https://thejapanesepage.com/nihongonotane-index/ Take a quiz on this episode here: https://thejapanesepage.com/podcast-nihongonotane-160 If you are a Makoto+ member, you can find the transcript, English translation, key vocabulary, and a downloadable PDF for printing: https://MakotoPlus.com/podcast-nihongonotane-160-m -- Become a Makoto+ member and get show notes with a complete transcript, translation, key vocabulary, and a downloadable PDF. www.MakotoPlus.com

Dive into the original, bittersweet tale of "The Little Mermaid" with this episode of "Nihongo no Tane." Explore the deeper, more poignant version of the story as Yumi contrasts it with the popular Disney adaptation. Join us for a captivating and educational discussion!   KEY VOCABULARY: 人魚姫(にんぎょひめ) The Little Mermaid [人魚(にんぎょ) mermaid + 姫(ひめ) princess] 寝室(しんしつ) bedroom [寝(ね) sleep + 室(しつ) room] 前回(ぜんかい) last time; previous time [前(ぜん) previous + 回(かい) time; instance] 夜明(よあ)けとともに at dawn; along with the dawn [夜明(よあ)け dawn + と and; with + ともに together with] 悲惨(ひさん)な tragic; miserable [悲 sad + 惨 miserable; tragic + な (adjective suffix -na)] 魂(たましい) soul; spirit 風(かぜ)の精(せい) wind spirit [風(かぜ) wind + の (possessive particle) + 精(せい) spirit] 涙(なみだ)が流(なが)れる tears flow; to cry [涙(なみだ) tears + が (subject marker) + 流(なが)れる flow] 呟(つぶや)く to murmur; to mutter 減(へ)ります to decrease [減(へ)る decrease + ます (polite form suffix)] 逆(ぎゃく)に conversely; on the contrary [逆(ぎゃく) opposite; reverse + に (adverbial particle)] 罰(ばつ)ゲーム penalty game [罰(ばつ) punishment + ゲーム game] 説教(せっきょう)っぽい preachy; sermonic [説教(せっきょう) sermon + っぽい (suffix indicating resemblance)] 一層(いっそう) much more; even more 文学的(ぶんがくてき) literary [文学(ぶんがく) literature + 的(てき) (suffix indicating characteristic)] 気兼(きが)ね reservation; constraint 増(ふ)える to increase   For upper beginners to intermediates. Listen to the short podcast and then answer the comprehension questions on the website: https://thejapanesepage.com/nihongonotane-index/ Take a quiz on this episode here: https://thejapanesepage.com/podcast-nihongonotane-159 If you are a Makoto+ member, you can find the transcript, English translation, key vocabulary, and a downloadable PDF for printing: https://MakotoPlus.com/podcast-nihongonotane-159-m -- Become a Makoto+ member and get show notes with a complete transcript, translation, key vocabulary, and a downloadable PDF. www.MakotoPlus.com  

Dive into the original, bittersweet tale of "The Little Mermaid" with this episode of "Nihongo no Tane." Explore the deeper, more poignant version of the story as Yumi contrasts it with the popular Disney adaptation. Join us for a captivating and educational discussion!   KEY VOCABULARY: 筋肉(きんにく) muscle 証拠(しょうこ) evidence; proof と思(おも)いつつ我慢(がまん)しているんですが though I think; I'm enduring [と思(おも)う (to think) + つつ (while) + 我慢(がまん)している (enduring; tolerating; している is the continuous form of する to do) + んですが (explanatory particle ん + が indicating contrast or but)] キョトン blankly [an onomatopoeia indicating a blank or puzzled expression] 原作(げんさく) original work 手(て)に入(い)れた obtained [手(て)に入(い)れる (to obtain; to get) in past form] 刺(さ)されたような like being stabbed [刺(さ)された (was stabbed; passive form of 刺(さ)す to stab) + ような (like; as if)] 変(か)えちゃってるねっていう saying you've changed it [変(か)える (to change) in the ちゃう form indicating completion or regret + てる (abbreviated form of ている continuous form) + ね (particle indicating confirmation or agreement) + っていう (to say)] 改(あらた)めて again; formally 海(うみ)の底(そこ) bottom of the sea [海(うみ) (sea) + の (possessive particle) + 底(そこ) (bottom)] 沈(しず)んだ船(ふね) sunken ship [沈(しず)んだ (sunken; past form of 沈(しず)む to sink) + 船(ふね) (ship)] どうしても no matter what; by all means 引(ひ)き換(か)えに in exchange for [引(ひ)き換(か)え (exchange) + に (particle indicating purpose or cause)] 話(はな)せなくなっちゃうんですね cannot talk [話(はな)せなく (cannot talk; negative potential form of 話(はな)す to talk) + なっちゃう (casual form of なってしまう to end up) + んですね (explanatory particle ん + です + ね indicating confirmation)] 残酷(ざんこく)なこと cruel thing [残酷(ざんこく)な (cruel) + こと (thing)] 切(き)り取(と)られる to be cut off [切(き)り取(と)る (to cut off) in passive form] 何(なに)にせよ in any case; whatever it is しかも moreover; furthermore 魔法(まほう)をかけられてしまいます will be cursed; will be enchanted [魔法(まほう) (magic; curse) + を (object marker) + かけられて (passive form of かける to cast) + しまいます (indicates an action done completely or unfortunately)] 無事(ぶじ)に safely; without incident 生涯幸(しょうがいしあわ)せ lifelong happiness [生涯(しょうがい) (lifetime; life) + 幸せ (happiness)] 海(うみ)の泡(あわ) sea foam [海(うみ) (sea) + の (possessive particle) + 泡(あわ) (foam)] 結婚式執(けっこんしきと)り行(おこな)われて wedding ceremony was held [結婚式 (wedding ceremony) + 執(と)り行(おこな)われて (was held; て-form of 執(と)り行(おこな)われる to hold a ceremony)] 突(つ)き刺(さ)して to pierce; to stab [突(つ)き刺(さ)す (to pierce; to stab) in て-form]   For upper beginners to intermediates. Listen to the short podcast and then answer the comprehension questions on the website: https://thejapanesepage.com/nihongonotane-index/ Take a quiz on this episode here: https://thejapanesepage.com/podcast-nihongonotane-158 If you are a Makoto+ member, you can find the transcript, English translation, key vocabulary, and a downloadable PDF for printing: https://MakotoPlus.com/podcast-nihongonotane-158-m -- Become a Makoto+ member and get show notes with a complete transcript, translation, key vocabulary, and a downloadable PDF. www.MakotoPlus.com  

Discover the art of simple, family-friendly cooking with Yumi in this episode of "Nihongo no Tane." Join her as she shares her culinary journey, from experimenting with vegetarian recipes to catering to her family's diverse tastes. Don't miss this engaging and relatable episode!   KEY VOCABULARY: 飽(あ)きられてしまいます Will get tired of [飽(あ)きる (to get tired of); passive form + しまう (to end up); ます (polite form)] 組(く)み合(あ)わせて Combine [組(く)み合(あ)わせる (to combine); て-form (conjunctive form)] 高度(こうど)な Advanced 真似(まね)はできません Cannot imitate [真似(まね) (imitation); は (topic marker); できません (cannot do)] 結婚(けっこん)したばかり Just married [結婚(けっこん)する (to marry); した (past tense); ばかり (just)] 引(ひ)っ越(こ)しをきっかけに Triggered by moving [引(ひ)っ越(ご)し (moving); を (object marker); きっかけ (trigger; opportunity); に (particle indicating context)] 処分(しょぶん)しまして Disposed of [処分(しょぶん)する (to dispose); し (stem form); まして (polite form)] 手元(てもと)にあるのは What I have on hand [手元(てもと) (on hand); に (particle indicating location); ある (to have); の (nominalizer); は (topic marker)] 印刷(いんさつ)したもの Printed thing [印刷(いんさつ)する (to print); した (past tense); もの (thing)] 訳(やく)したもの Translated thing [訳(やく)す (to translate); した (past tense); もの (thing)] 手(て)の込(こ)んだもの Elaborate thing [手(て)の込(こ)む (to elaborate); だ (past tense); もの (thing)] 複雑(ふくざつ)な Complex 書(か)いてあったら If it is written [書(か)く (to write); て-form + ある (to be); たら (conditional)] パパっと Quickly [onomatopoeic word indicating quickness] さっと炒(いた)めるだけ Just quickly stir-fry [さっと (quickly); 炒(いた)める (to stir-fry); だけ (only)] いまいち Not quite right; not very good [slang] ひき肉(にく) Ground meat, etc. 刻(きざ)んだもの Chopped things [刻(きざ)む (to chop); だ (past tense); もの (thing)] 詰(つ)め込(こ)んで Stuffed [詰(つ)め込(こ)む (to stuff); て-form (conjunctive form)] 喜(よろこ)ばれるもの Pleasing thing [喜(よろこ)ぶ (to please); passive form; もの (thing)] 好(この)み Preference 一人(ひとり)ずつ One by one [一人(ひとり) (one person); ずつ (each)] 野菜(やさい)しか食(た)べません Only eat vegetables [野菜(やさい) (vegetables); しか (only); 食(た)べません (do not eat)] 全員(ぜんいん)バラバラ All different [全員(ぜんいん) (everyone); バラバラ (different)] 少(すく)なくとも At least 食(た)べてもらえれば If they can eat [食(た)べる (to eat); ても (conditional); らえる (potential form); ば (if)]   For upper beginners to intermediates. Listen to the short podcast and then answer the comprehension questions on the website: https://thejapanesepage.com/nihongonotane-index/ Take a quiz on this episode here: https://thejapanesepage.com/podcast-nihongonotane-157 If you are a Makoto+ member, you can find the transcript, English translation, key vocabulary, and a downloadable PDF for printing: https://MakotoPlus.com/podcast-nihongonotane-157-m -- Become a Makoto+ member and get show notes with a complete transcript, translation, key vocabulary, and a downloadable PDF. www.MakotoPlus.com

Ever wondered why Japanese kids dislike piman more than broccoli? Find out on this new episode of "Nihongo no Tane" as Yumi delves into the fascinating world of vegetables and their cultural significance. Don't miss this entertaining and educational episode!   KEY VOCABULARY: ピーマン bell pepper [ピーマン is a transliteration of "piment," the French word for pepper. In Japanese, it specifically refers to the green bell pepper.] 母語(ぼご) native language [母語(ぼご) consists of 母 (mother) and 語 (language). Together, they mean "native language" or "mother tongue."] ゲラゲラ笑(わら)います laugh loudly [ゲラゲラ is an onomatopoeia for loud, hearty laughter, and 笑(わら)います is the polite form of 笑(わら)う (to laugh).] 唐辛子(とうがらし) chili pepper [唐辛子(とうがらし) is made up of 唐 (Tang dynasty, here used to mean China) and 辛子(からし) (spicy, pepper). Together, they refer to chili pepper.] 説(せつ) theory [説(せつ) means "theory" or "explanation."] 由来(ゆらい) origin [由来(ゆらい) means "origin" or "source."] 言(い)われている said to be [言(い)われている is the passive form of 言(い)う (to say), meaning "it is said" or "is said to be."] 一番近(いちばんちか)い closest [一番近(いちばんちか)い consists of 一番(いちばん) (number one; the most) and 近(ちか)い (close), meaning "closest."] 代表(だいひょう) representative [代表(だいひょう) means "representative" or "representation."] 日本語版(にほんごばん) Japanese version [日本語版(にほんごばん) consists of 日本語(にほんご) (Japanese language) and 版(はん) (version), meaning "Japanese version."] 入(い)れ替(か)えられていた replaced [入(い)れ替(か)えられていた is the passive past form of 入(い)れ替(か)える (to replace), meaning "had been replaced."] 嫌(きら)われている disliked [嫌(きら)われている is the passive form of 嫌(きら)う (to dislike), meaning "is disliked."] 設定(せってい) setting [設定(せってい) means "setting" or "configuration."] 伝(つた)わった was introduced [伝(つた)わった is the past form of 伝(つた)わる (to be introduced; to be transmitted), meaning "was introduced."] この頃(ごろ) during this period; these days 一般的(いっぱんてき)に generally [一般的(いっぱんてき)に is an adverbial form of 一般的(いっぱんてき) (general), meaning "generally."] 食卓(しょくたく) dining table [食卓(しょくたく) consists of 食(しょく) (meal) and 卓(たく) (table), together meaning "dining table."] 食(た)べられていました was eaten [食(た)べられていました is the past passive form of 食(た)べる (to eat), meaning "was eaten."] 肉詰(にくづ)め stuffed with meat [肉詰(にくづ)め is made up of 肉(にく) (meat) and 詰(つ)め (stuffed), referring to something stuffed with meat.] 比(くら)べると compared to [比(くら)べると is the conditional form of 比(くら)べる (to compare), meaning "when compared to."] 調理法(ちょうりほう) cooking method [調理法(ちょうりほう) consists of 調理(ちょうり) (cooking) and 法(ほう) (method), meaning "cooking method."] 食育(しょくいく) food education [食育(しょくいく) consists of 食(しょく) (food) and 育(いく) (education), together meaning "food education."] ないんじゃないかな don't think so [ないんじゃないかな is a casual form of expressing doubt, meaning "I don't think so."] 以上(いじょう) more than; above 太(ふと)りすぎ overweight [太(ふと)りすぎ consists of 太(ふと)る (to gain weight) and すぎ (too much), meaning "overweight."] 負(ま)けずに not losing [負(ま)けずに is the negative form of 負(ま)ける (to lose), meaning "without losing" or "not losing."] した方(ほう)がいい should do [した方(ほう)がいい is a suggestion form of する (to do), meaning "should do."]   For upper beginners to intermediates. Listen to the short podcast and then answer the comprehension questions on the website: https://thejapanesepage.com/nihongonotane-index/ Take a quiz on this episode here: https://thejapanesepage.com/podcast-nihongonotane-156 If you are a Makoto+ member, you can find the transcript, English translation, key vocabulary, and a downloadable PDF for printing: https://MakotoPlus.com/podcast-nihongonotane-156-m -- Become a Makoto+ member and get show notes with a complete transcript, translation, key vocabulary, and a downloadable PDF. www.MakotoPlus.com

What happens when Yumi decides to tackle Spanish through English? Find out on this new episode of “Nihongo no Tane” as she shares the funny and challenging moments of her language learning journey. Tune in and join the adventure!   KEY VOCABULARY: 何(なに)かと one thing or another バタバタしている to be very busy doing different things [a phrase used to describe someone is very busy by moving around doing things constantly. バタバタ is onomatopoeia which is mimicking sounds of a person who is making noise by moving around doing things] 録音(ろくおん)する to record (audio) [録音(ろくおん) (recording)] ～という気(き)持(も)ちになれません don’t feel like doing ~ [literally, “can’t become the mood of ~”;という (used as connector linking modifying phrase and a noun that is modified); 気(き)持(も)ち (feeling; mood); になれません (“can’t become”; polite potential form of polite form of になれない (can’t become))] 何(なに)も文(もん)句(く)はない (I) have no complaint; there is no complaint [何(なに)も (“(not) at all” when used in a negative phrase); 文(もん)句(く) (complaint; objection); はない (there is no ~)] 心配事(しんぱいごと) worries; troubles [something that troubles or worries one’s mind] 忘(わす)れちゃいます end up forgetting; forget unfortunately [contraction of 忘(わす)れてしまいます and it’s very casual; ちゃいます  (contracted form てしまいます); note: (忘(わす)れ)ちゃう is contraction of (忘(わす)れ)てしまう] 韓国(かんこく)語(ご) Korean language [韓国(かんこく) (Korea); 語(ご) (language)] ～ということで since/because/ as it is the case that ~; it is the case that ~ and [という (modifying connector); こと (it means “case”, “situation” or “fact”); で (て-form of だ/です) used to connect to the next phrase. It can be translated as “because/since/ as” or “and” as conjunctive] ～たばかりjust (moved to US) [“plain past form V + ばかり” means “just did ~”/”has just done ~”] 変(か)わりよう the way/manner of (her) change [変(か)わり (“change”; noun form of 変(か)わる (to change); よう (look; appearance; manner; circumstance))] っていう感(かん)じで (she) was like ~ and [っていう(casual for “という”); で (て-form of だ/です to continue to the next phrase)] 和気(わき)あいあいと very happily; cheerfully; lively [和気(わき)あいあいdescribes the way people are interacting enjoying each other’s company in a lively and cheerful atmosphere; と (making the preceding phrase adverbial form)] ～たところ when (I) did ~; after (I) did ~ [“plain past form V + ところ”] ～た途(と)端(たん) as soon as doing ~ [“plain past V + 途(と)端(たん)”] 教(おし)えてもらえる can receive teaching; can have (someone) teach (me) [“て-form V + もらう” means “to have someone do something for you (or someone else)”); 教(おし)えて (て-form of 教(おし)える (to teach); もらえる (potential form of もらう))] というふうに (言(い)ってくれまして) said that ~ [“いうふうに” is sort of extra and can be omitted as in “と(言(い)ってくれまして)”. However, Yumi obviously summarized what her husband said instead of quoting him exactly, therefore というふうに is used to give a sense of “(he said) along the line of such and such”] ～じゃないかなと思(おも)います (I) think it might be that ~; I think that ~ [じゃないか (casual forではないか (isn’t that ~?)); な (emphatic particle used at the end of one’s own idea or thought, but it also add softness); と思(おも)います (I think that)]           For upper beginners to intermediates. Listen to the short podcast and then answer the comprehension questions on the website: https://thejapanesepage.com/nihongonotane-index/ Take a quiz on this episode here: https://thejapanesepage.com/podcast-nihongonotane-155 If you are a Makoto+ member, you can find the transcript, English translation, key vocabulary, and a downloadable PDF for printing: https://MakotoPlus.com/podcast-nihongonotane-155-m -- Become a Makoto+ member and get show notes with a complete transcript, translation, key vocabulary, and a downloadable PDF. www.MakotoPlus.com  

In this episode of her podcast, Yumi shares her personal story of dental discovery and recovery, emphasizing the vital role of dental care in our lives and the resilience needed to overcome oral health hurdles. Listen to this episode and let us know if you had some experience like this!   KEY VOCABULARY: 歯(は)医(い)者(しゃ) - dentist [歯(は) (tooth); 医(い)者(しゃ) (physician; medical doctor)] 別(べつ)の件(けん) - another matter; another case [別(べつ) (another; separate); 件(けん) (matter; case)] 診(み)てもらう to be seen/ to be examined (by a doctor) [診(み)て (て-form of 診(み)る (to examine medically); ～てもらう means “to get/ to have ~ done” which indicates one is receiving help or service from someone)] 被(かぶ)せ物(もの) - crown (dental terminology) 取(と)りかえる- to replace 嚙(か)み合(あ)わせ – bite [嚙(か)み (from 嚙(か)む (to bite; to clench)) + 合(あ)わせ (noun form of 合(あ)わせる(to match; to place together))] 型(かた)を取(と)る – take an impression (for teeth) 知(ち)覚(かく)過(か)敏(びん)- sensory sensitivity [知(ち)覚(かく) (perception of physical senses); 過(か)敏(びん) (hypersensitivity)] 我(が)慢(まん) - tolerance; endurance; bearing; patience まな板(いた) cutting board 暴(あば)れようが声(こえ)を出(だ)そうが no matter how much struggle or scream [～ようが means “no matter how much ~”or “even if (one) does ~”;暴(あば)れよう(plain volitional form of 暴(あば)れる (to act violently; to struggle) + が (however; but)); 声(こえ)を出(だ)そう (plain volitional form of 声(こえ)を出(だ)す (to speak; to vocalize) + が (however; but))] 命(いのち)を握(にぎ)られる one’s life is in the hands (of someone); one’s life is at the mercy of [命(いのち) (life); 握(にぎ)られる (“to be held”; passive form of 握(にぎ)る (to grip; to clasp; to hold; to seize (power)))] 情(なさ)けない- miserable; pitiable; shameful;　pathetic 姿(すがた) - appearance; image; figure; state [In the context of competitions or contests] 麻(ま)酔(すい)の注射(ちゅうしゃ) - anesthetic injection/shot [麻(ま)酔(すい) (anesthesia); の (of); 注射(ちゅうしゃ) (injection; shot)] 歯(は)ぎしり– teeth grinding [歯(は) (tooth; teeth); きしり(grinding; creaking)] 食(く)いしばりclenching 市(し)販(はん)の – store-bought; over the counter [市(し) (market); 販(はん) (selling)] 仕(し)方(かた)ない – there is no other way; there no alternative 随分(ずいぶん)- very; extremely; quite       For upper beginners to intermediates. Listen to the short podcast and then answer the comprehension questions on the website: https://thejapanesepage.com/nihongonotane-index/ Take a quiz on this episode here: https://thejapanesepage.com/podcast-nihongonotane-154 If you are a Makoto+ member, you can find the transcript, English translation, key vocabulary, and a downloadable PDF for printing: https://MakotoPlus.com/podcast-nihongonotane-154-m -- Become a Makoto+ member and get show notes with a complete transcript, translation, key vocabulary, and a downloadable PDF. www.MakotoPlus.com

In this episode of her podcast, Yumi delves into the profound impact of classical music on personal growth, inspired by violin prodigy Yoshimura Himari's mesmerizing performances. She beautifully narrates her own musical journey and the unexpected ways a popular manga stirred a friend's ambition to master Chopin, weaving a narrative that celebrates the transformative power of art and inspiration. Listen to this episode and let us know if you had some experience like this!   KEY VOCABULARY: 聴(き)く - to listen to (music) 演奏(えんそう) - music performance ハマってしまった – got hooked; ended up getting hooked [ハマって (て-form ofハマる/はまる (to get hooked)); しまった(past form of しまう(to end up with ~))] ～というわけです - ～ is what happened; ～ is the reason (for it) [this expression is used to explain a background which lead to a decision or an outcome] きっかけ - opportunity; occasion [an initial opportunity or situation that leads someone or something to something else] ～を習(なら)う to take lessons in 中級(ちゅうきゅう) - intermediate level [中(ちゅう) (middle; intermediate); 級(きゅう) (grade; class; level)] 吹奏楽(すいそうがく)部(ぶ) brass band club [吹奏(すいそう) (wind instrument); 楽(がく) (music); 部(ぶ) (school club)] 地(じ)元(もと)福(ふく)井(い)県(けん) - (my) home region, Fukui prefecture [地(じ)元(もと) (local area); 福(ふく)井(い)県(けん) (Fukui prefecture)] 行進曲(こうしんきょく) marching band music [行進(こうしん) (march; parade); 曲(きょく) (music)] 全国大会(ぜんこくたいかい) - national competition [全(ぜん) (all; whole); 国(こく) (country); 大会(たいかい) (competition; convention)] 序曲(じょきょく) - overture ～作曲(さっきょく) - composed by ～ [作(さく) (make); 曲(きょく)(piece of music); 作曲(さっきょく) means “composition (of music)”] 懐(なつ)かしい nostalgic [an adjective that describes a feeling one feel when reminiscing about good memories] 青春(せいしゅん) - youth; one’s youthful days; time of adolescence; the springtime of one's life [literally, “blue spring”] 流行(はや)る - to be popular; to come into fashion [流行(りゅうこう)する is a very similar word but is mainly used for fashion or cold & flue.] (を)目指(めざ)す - to aim to become ~ [also “to aim a location as a goal to get to”           For upper beginners to intermediates. Listen to the short podcast and then answer the comprehension questions on the website: https://thejapanesepage.com/nihongonotane-index/ Take a quiz on this episode here: https://thejapanesepage.com/podcast-nihongonotane-153 If you are a Makoto+ member, you can find the transcript, English translation, key vocabulary, and a downloadable PDF for printing: https://MakotoPlus.com/podcast-nihongonotane-153-m -- Become a Makoto+ member and get show notes with a complete transcript, translation, key vocabulary, and a downloadable PDF. www.MakotoPlus.com