Welcome to the Nihongo Lesson feature. We strive to give you useful manga-based Japanese language tips and maybe even a glimpse into the translation process. This week's lesson will feature terms from some brand-new Shonen Jump sports manga! If you haven't heard of Haikyu!! or Kuroko's Basketball yet, check out the free chapters available on our site!

BUKATSU (ぶかつ)

BUKATSU are "club activities." When this term shows up in shonen manga, it often refers to the after-school activities that students participate in. Most common are sports teams. Students who like sports join the basketball, volleyball or any other sports club. But not all clubs require you to sweat. There are also artistic and cultural clubs. How would Kuroko's Basketball have been different if Kuroko had joined the literature club...?

CHIISANA KYOJIN (ちいさなきょじん)

CHIISANA KYOJIN means "little giant," and it's a term that means everything to Shoyo Hinata, the main character in Haikyu!! Hinata isn't very tall for a prospective volleyball player, but he makes up for his short stature with jumping ability and his massive heart! Just like his idol, a legendary player known as the CHIISANA KYOJIN.

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