ペン

• Reading: ペン
• Romaji: pen
• Pronunciation: /pe.ɴ/

Meaning

Pen. A writing instrument that uses ink.

A loanword from English 'pen,' always written in katakana. In Japanese, ペン is a general term for ink pens, including ballpoint pens (ボールペン), felt-tip pens (サインペン), and fountain pens (万年筆). Japan is famous worldwide for high-quality pens and stationery.

Examples

1. ペンで名前を書いてください。 Please write your name with a pen.
2. 赤いペンを持っていますか。 Do you have a red pen?
3. ペンを一本借りてもいいですか。 May I borrow a pen?

Usage Guide

Context: school, office, daily life

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Borrowed from English 'pen,' which derives from Latin 'penna' (feather). Entered Japanese during the Meiji era modernization period.

Cultural Context

Era: Meiji era

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal