© 2026 Sloth Lingo. Learn easy. Lounge wisely.

gaijin

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˈɡaɪdʒɪn/

KK: /guy-jin/

noun
Definition

A person from outside Japan, often used to refer to foreigners living or visiting Japan.


Example

As a gaijin, I found it interesting to learn about Japanese culture.


Conversation
Sloth A
I met a gaijin at the cafe yesterday.
Sloth B
Oh really? What were they like?
Sloth A
They were super friendly and loved talking about Japan.
Sloth B
That's awesome! It's always nice to meet a gaijin who appreciates the culture.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
foreigner
outsider
alien
Antonyms
native
local
insider
Root Explanation

Gaijin is a Japanese word formed from "gai" (meaning outside) and "jin" (meaning person). It refers to a person from outside Japan, typically a foreigner.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'from outside' ('gai') — that's why 'gaijin' means a person from outside Japan.

Visually Confused Words
gain
Is this page helpful?