口語

• Reading: こうご
• Romaji: kougo
• Kanji breakdown: 口 (kou/kuchi) — mouth; 語 (go) — language, word
• Pronunciation: /koː.ɡo/

Meaning

Spoken language; colloquial speech. The form of language used in everyday conversation as opposed to literary or formal writing.

A noun contrasting with 文語 (bungo, literary/written language). In Japanese linguistics, 口語 refers to modern spoken Japanese and the grammar patterns characteristic of everyday speech. Important in language study because many JLPT and textbook grammar points distinguish between 口語 and 文語 forms. Common patterns include 口語体 (kougo-tai, colloquial style), 口語表現 (kougo hyougen, colloquial expression), and 口語的 (kougo-teki, colloquial/informal).

Examples

1. 論文では口語を使わないように注意してください。 Be careful not to use colloquial language in academic papers.
2. 日本語の口語と文語はかなり違いがある。 There is quite a big difference between spoken and written Japanese.
3. この教科書は口語表現を中心に学べる。 This textbook focuses on learning colloquial expressions.

Usage Guide

Context: linguistics, language study, writing instruction

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese: 口 (kou, mouth) + 語 (go, language/word). Literally 'mouth language' — the language as it comes from the mouth, i.e. spoken language.

Cultural Context

Era: Pre-modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Educated