gaijin

Gaijin is a Japanese term used to refer to a person who is not Japanese. It is often translated as “foreigner,” but its nuance in Japanese differs from the more formal word for non-residents. The term is written with the kanji 外人, literally meaning “outside person,” and is pronounced gaijin.

In everyday Japanese, gaijin is widely used in casual speech, media, and popular culture. Its tone can range from neutral to informal, friendly, or even pejorative, depending on context, relationship between speakers, and delivery. Because it can imply outsiders or non-members of a social group, some people view it as potentially exclusionary or disrespectful, especially in formal or official settings.

A more formal and neutral alternative is gaikokujin (外国人), which directly means “foreign national” and is commonly used in government, legal, and institutional contexts. In recent years, discussions about inclusion and sensitivity have influenced how the terms are used, with some choosing gaikokujin in official communications and others using gaijin in everyday conversation.

Usage varies by region, community, and generation. Some foreigners and expatriates reclaim or casually use gaijin within certain social circles, while others prefer not to use it at all. Overall, the choice of term reflects social norms, respect for individuals, and evolving attitudes toward cultural and national identity.