I bet you’re wondering just what I’m going to talk about today. I’m sure the title doesn’t say much about the topic, so I’ll start this by talking to you about the way words are shortened in Japanese.
Many languages do this, so it’s not really a surprise, but you would be surprised by some of the words that come from shortening longer ones. Take for example ファミコン（Famicom.) This word is short for “Family Computer.” Another popular example is the word ポケモン（Pokemon.) You all know this word. Of course it’s short for “Pocket Monster.” If you want to get used to the Japanese language, then you will have to start adjusting to words like these. I warn you know, however, that is take some time. I’m not even there myself.
You see, I teach in an area surrounded by mountains and snow. Along with these amenities come skiing. In my previous town, I had never heard any ski lingo before, but now I’m hearing it everyday, and there is just one word I cannot get out of my head. That is is クロカン（Kurokan.)
This lovely little word originates from the longer word クロスカントリー（Cross Country) and I cannot wrap my brain around it. For some reason I think people are talking about “Croaking.” I’m sure it will fade into my linguist database eventually. It’s just a matter of time. Here is a little quiz for you. Find out what these shortened Japaense words mean.
セクハラ（sekuhara) —-
コンビに（conbini) —–
スーパー（suupaa) —–
オムライス（omuraisu) —–
Bonus: ブリちゃん （bricchan) ——
Good luck!
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