テンプレ
Meaning
Template — something formulaic, predictable, or following a standard pattern. Also used literally for document templates.
テンプレ has both a literal and a figurative meaning. Literally, it refers to document templates (email templates, form templates, etc.). Figuratively, it describes anything predictable or following a cliché pattern — a テンプレ展開 is a 'template plot development' in anime/manga, and テンプレ回答 is a 'template response' that lacks originality. The figurative usage is especially common in anime/manga criticism and internet discussions.
Examples
- この展開テンプレすぎて先が読めるわ。 This plot development is so formulaic I can see where it's going.
- メールのテンプレ作っといたから使って。 I made an email template, so feel free to use it.
- 合コンのテンプレ質問ばっかりでつまらなかった。 The mixer was boring — nothing but cookie-cutter questions.
Usage Guide
Context: internet culture, anime/manga, workplace (informal), daily conversation
Tone: casual, sometimes critical
Do Say
- テンプレ通りにやればOKだよ。 (Just follow the template and you'll be fine.)
- またテンプレ展開かよ。 (Another predictable plot development, huh.)
Don't Say
- フォーマルな文書で「テンプレ」 (In formal documents, use the full form テンプレート — テンプレ is too casual)
Common Mistakes
- Not distinguishing the literal (template) and figurative (formulaic) meanings — context determines which is intended
- Using テンプレ as a compliment — when applied to creative works, it usually implies the work is unoriginal
Origin & History
Abbreviated from テンプレート (tenpurēto, from English 'template'). The literal usage has been common since the 2000s, while the figurative 'formulaic/predictable' meaning spread through anime/manga and internet culture.
Cultural Context
Era: 2000s, both literal and figurative usage
Generation: Millennials and Gen Z
Social background: Universal in casual contexts
Regional notes: Used across Japan. The figurative 'formulaic' meaning is especially prominent in anime/manga and internet discussions.
Related Phrases
Flashcards, quizzes, audio pronunciation and spaced repetition