友達

• Reading: ともだち
• Romaji: tomodachi
• Kanji breakdown: 友 (tomo/yuu) — friend, companion; 達 (tachi/tatsu) — plural suffix, reach
• Pronunciation: /to.mo.da.tɕi/

Meaning

Friend; companion. The most common word for a friend.

The standard, all-purpose word for 'friend' in Japanese. Works in both casual and polite contexts. Unlike English, 友達 already implies a meaningful relationship — Japanese speakers are more selective about who they call 友達 versus 知り合い (acquaintance).

Examples

1. 友達と映画を見に行きます。 I'm going to see a movie with a friend.
2. 学校で新しい友達ができました。 I made a new friend at school.
3. 私の一番いい友達は田中さんです。 My best friend is Tanaka.

Usage Guide

Context: daily life, school, social situations

Tone: friendly

Origin & History

Composed of 友 (tomo, 'friend/companion') and 達 (tachi, plural suffix for people). Originally indicated a group of companions, but now used for both singular and plural.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal