boku
pronounBeginner I (male speaker)
informal

A first-person pronoun used by males, typically younger or in informal contexts. Less formal than わたし (watashi) and more personal than 俺 (ore).

僕は明日テストがある。

I have a test tomorrow.

僕の夢は医者になることだ。

My dream is to become a doctor.

💡

Often used by boys, young men, or in casual settings. Can sound childish if used by adults in formal contexts.

Collocations

僕のmy僕たちwe僕らwe (casual)

Related Phrases

💡Pro Tip

Gender and Formality

Use 'boku' for male speakers in informal settings. For females or formal contexts, use 'watashi' instead.

Gold Rule

Avoid Overuse

Using 'boku' too frequently can sound immature in professional or formal situations.

📖Word Origin

From Middle Japanese ぼく, possibly influenced by Dutch boef (ruffian) or Portuguese bôbo (fool).

📝Usage Notes

Avoid using in formal or professional settings. More common in anime, manga, and casual speech.

Word Breakdown

childish or informal prefix
prefix
+
suffix indicating familiarity
suffix
和英辞典