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 celebrate Black Clover. With the popularity poll successfully completed and an anime series coming later this year, Black Clover is on a roll. But will Asta and friends be chosen as Royal Knights?!

SHITSUJI (しつじ)

SHITSUJI means “butler.” SHITSUJI are a common trope in manga and anime, so it’s not much of a surprise that one would appear in Black Clover. This is a series that features royalty and spoiled upper-class people, after all. But who could have predicted such a cool SHITSUJI like Walter? He stands by his young master even as he’s getting injured. And he’s always ready to whip out a cup of tea. Truly a master-class butler!

E (え)

E, pronounced “eh,” means “picture.” It was also translated as “art” in some of the panels from last week’s chapter. Rill’s art magic sure is visually impressive. He can use any element that he can draw. Does this make him too overpowered? It will be interesting to see how Luck’s team reacts in the next round!

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