boku
pronounIntermediate
informal

I, me (informal, masculine)

僕は学生です。

I am a student.

💡

Often used by men in casual settings.

formal

a male speaker (used to refer to oneself in a humble or casual way)

僕が伺います。

I will visit (humbly).

Collocations

僕たちwe (informal)僕の友達my friend

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

僕にできることphrase
what I can do

💡Pro Tip

Usage tip

When in doubt, use '私' (watashi) for a safer, more polite option.

📖Word Origin

From old Japanese, originally meaning 'servant' or 'slave'.

📝Usage Notes

Generally used by males in informal settings. Can come across as rude or overly casual in formal situations or when speaking to someone of higher status.

Noted on May 2, 2026JAEN