Japanese Pronouns for I / Me / Myself

Additional Notes

Today’s card will help you to learn about Japanese pronouns for I (me). There are a few words you can use and this card will help you to learn the difference between them.

僕 (boku) is commonly used by children so some people might thought that this pronoun might sound a bit childish, but it’s quite normal to be used among friends too. Overall, it’s safe if you want to use it.

You might hear 俺 / オレ (ore) often when watching movies. It’s okay to use it, but please make sure that you’re in a situation where you are positively sure that it’s okay to use that pronouns (talking with your very close friend circle who also use it/etc). If you are a beginner learner or unsure about the situation, it is best to avoid it since if it’s used in a wrong situation, you will be considered as being rude.

When in doubt, use 私 (watashi). Note that boku, washi and ore are commonly used by men while atashi is used by women.