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 focus on Katakuri, one of the coolest new characters in One Piece. His battle against Luffy has been one of the most intense and violent of the entire series. Who will end up on top?!

KATAKURI (かたくり)

KATAKURI powder is a starch originally harvested from an Asian lily. However, because of the rarity of the flower, modern KATAKURI is processed from potatoes. KATAKURI powder is used in all sorts of snacks and desserts. It is also used in a delicious treat called Warabimochi.

CHIKARAMOCHI (ちからもち)

Katakuri’s attacks are almost all puns based on the word “mochi.” Normally, CHIKARAMOCHI is made up of the characters for “strength” and “to have.” Basically, it means someone who’s strong. But Katakuri’s attack includes the character for “mochi” instead. The attack name became “Power Mochi” in English. Puns are difficult to translate, unfortunately.

YAKIMOCHI (やきもち)

YAKIMOCHI can mean “roasted mochi” but is also a homonym for “jealousy.” Another mochi-based pun as an attack! What will Oda Sensei think up next? We went with “Burning Mochi” for the English name.

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