anime: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
MediumInformal to Neutral
Quick answer
What does “anime” mean?
A style of animation originating in Japan, characterized by colorful artwork, stylized artistic techniques, and often fantastical themes and character designs.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A style of animation originating in Japan, characterized by colorful artwork, stylized artistic techniques, and often fantastical themes and character designs.
The medium or industry of Japanese animation; also used more loosely to refer to any animation in a similar style or even to the associated fan culture, merchandise, and aesthetics.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. Both dialects use the term in the same way.
Connotations
Identical connotations in both varieties.
Frequency
Usage frequency is likely similar, correlating with the popularity of the medium in each region.
Grammar
How to Use “anime” in a Sentence
watch [anime]be a fan of [anime]produce [anime]recommend [anime] [to someone]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “anime” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- She has an anime-style avatar for her profile.
- The game features anime-inspired character designs.
American English
- He collects anime figures and posters.
- The show has a very anime aesthetic.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in contexts of media licensing, streaming services, and merchandising (e.g., 'The company's anime division is profitable.').
Academic
Used in media studies, cultural studies, or art history to discuss the form, its history, and its cultural impact (e.g., 'The paper analyzes gender representation in 1990s anime.').
Everyday
Common in discussions about entertainment, hobbies, and pop culture (e.g., 'What anime are you watching at the moment?').
Technical
Used in animation production to refer to specific Japanese techniques, styles, or industry practices.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “anime”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “anime”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “anime”
- Pronouncing it as 'ay-neem'.
- Using it as a plural noun ('animes'); it is generally uncountable (e.g., 'I like anime,' not 'I like animes').
- Capitalizing it (unless at the start of a sentence).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
While both are forms of animation, 'anime' specifically refers to the style and industry of Japanese animation, which often has distinct artistic conventions, narrative complexities, and target demographics different from Western cartoons.
The standard pronunciation is /ˈæn.ə.meɪ/ (AN-uh-may) in American English and /ˈæn.ɪ.meɪ/ (AN-i-may) in British English, with three syllables. It is not pronounced 'ay-neem'.
No, 'anime' is generally used as a mass (uncountable) noun. You would say 'I watch a lot of anime,' not 'I watch a lot of animes.' However, it can sometimes be used countably to refer to specific titles (e.g., 'The two animes have similar themes').
'Anime' refers to animated films and series. 'Manga' refers to Japanese comic books and graphic novels. Many anime are adaptations of popular manga, but they are distinct media.
A style of animation originating in Japan, characterized by colorful artwork, stylized artistic techniques, and often fantastical themes and character designs.
Anime is usually informal to neutral in register.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Anime and chill (a play on 'Netflix and chill')”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'A NIME' -> 'A Nimble Imagination Made Electrifying' – captures the dynamic, imaginative nature of the medium.
Conceptual Metaphor
ANIME IS A PORTAL (to other worlds, cultures, or emotional experiences).
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is the most accurate definition of 'anime' in English?