君
君、どこに行くの？
Where are you going?
informal second-person pronoun, typically used by males to address someone younger or of equal status; can also be used affectionately or condescendingly depending on context
君、この本を読んでおいてくれ。
Read this book for me, will you?
君の意見は面白いね。
Your opinion is interesting.
Commonly used in male speech; in modern contexts, it can sound old-fashioned or literary. Historically, it was used by men to address women or inferiors.
suffix added to a person's name to indicate familiarity or respect, often used in male speech
太郎君、来週の会議に出席してくれ。
Taro, please attend next week's meeting.
Used after a given name, especially for boys or young men. In business contexts, it can sound polite but not overly formal.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
When to use 君 vs あなた
Use 君 in informal male speech, especially among friends or younger people. Use あなた in neutral/formal contexts or when unsure of the relationship. お前 is more direct and can sound rough.
Gold Rule
Hierarchy matters
Always consider social hierarchy. Using 君 toward a superior can sound disrespectful unless you have an intimate relationship.
Word Origin
From Old Japanese *kimi* (君), originally meaning 'lord' or 'ruler,' later evolving into a second-person pronoun used by males to address inferiors or equals.
Usage Notes
Avoid using 君 to address someone older or in a higher position unless you have an established close relationship. In modern speech, it can sound dated or overly familiar.