Rachelle
Comparing two words [tomodachi vs nakama] and their differences in Japanese. What is the difference between "tomodachi" and "nakama"? I assume they both mean friend, but what is the correct way to use them? When would I use "nakama" if at all? Example sentences to compare would be appreciated. Also, what is the word in Japanese for "or" in English?
Apr 26, 2015 3:16 PM
Answers · 5
2
From what I gathered in TV, it seems that 友達(tomodachi) is like a general friend while 仲間(nakama) is someone you go through thick and thin with. An example is in One Piece, where the crewmates call each other nakama. I have also heard it used with bandmates. As for "or," か (ka) can be used, such as 田中さんや山田さんはやります。 (tanaka-san ya yamada-san wa yarimasu) (Tanaka or Yamada will do it)
April 26, 2015
Curious as well! Always thought nakama was more of a partner/colleague than a friend but let's see what the good nihonfolk say
April 26, 2015
Still haven’t found your answers?
Write down your questions and let the native speakers help you!