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 a new addition to the free section on the Shonen Jump website, My Hero Academia: Vigilantes! This series is a fresh take on the world of My Hero Academia and features characters outside of the hero system. Check out My Hero Academia: Vigilantes for free HERE!

HOURITSU (ほうりつ)

HOURITSU means “law.” In the My Hero Academia world, being a superhero is regulated. You need to go to school and get a license if you want to fight crime. But in Vigilantes, there is another brand of hero—an illegal kind. These guys skirt the rules, but they’re just as heroic. Plus they have cool names like Mr. Nice Guy!

DOGEZA (どげざ)

DOGEZA is the Japanese art of bowing while on your knees to apologize. It was translated as “bowing down” in chapter 1, and it’s Koichi’s special skill. Koichi even has an ultimate move where he uses his sliding Quirk to enhance his DOGEZA. The Kowtow Evasion is both hilarious and super useful! If Deku ever masters it, maybe he can avoid always getting injured!

Get more tips by listening to our PODCAST!