メモ

• Reading: メモ
• Romaji: memo
• Pronunciation: /me.mo/

Meaning

Memorandum; note. A short written record used as a reminder.

A katakana loanword from English 'memo' that functions as a noun and suru verb (メモする/メモを取る). Extremely common in everyday Japanese for any kind of quick note-taking. メモ帳 (memochō) is a notepad, and メモを取る (to take notes) is one of the most frequent collocations. Used in both casual and professional settings.

Examples

1. 大事なことはすぐにメモを取る習慣がある。 I have a habit of jotting down important things right away.
2. 電話番号をメモしておいてください。 Please write down the phone number.
3. メモを見ないと買い物リストを思い出せない。 I can't remember the shopping list without looking at my notes.

Usage Guide

Context: work, school, daily life

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Shortened from English 'memorandum.' Entered Japanese as a convenient abbreviation and became one of the most widely used loanwords in daily life.

Cultural Context

Era: Postwar

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal