Learn Japanese Katakana: The Complete Guide
F Rank LessonKatakana (カタカナ) is the angular, phonetic script in Japanese used for foreign words, names, onomatopoeia, and emphasis. This guide covers everything you need to read, write, and understand katakana effectively.
See the Katakana ChartWhat Is Katakana?
Katakana (カタカナ) is one of the three scripts in Japanese, alongside hiragana and kanji. While hiragana is typically used for native words and grammar, katakana shares the same set of sounds but is reserved for foreign or stylistic elements.
If you’ve already mastered hiragana, katakana will feel familiar in sound but looks distinct with straight lines and angles. You’ll see it often on packaging, menus, signs, and brand names.
When to Use Katakana
Common use cases with examples you’ll see in daily life.
1. Foreign Loanwords
Katakana is common for borrowed words.
2. Foreign Names & Places
People, cities, countries, brands.
3. Onomatopoeia & Mimetic Words
Sounds and expressive words.
4. Scientific & Technical Terms
Animals, materials, science terms.
5. Emphasis & Stylistic Usage
Highlight or stylistic effect.
Katakana Chart
All 46 basic katakana characters.
Katakana and Abbreviations
Long loanwords are often shortened in katakana.
Examples
Learning Tip: Read Signs in Katakana
Many shop names and ads use katakana for English‑derived words—great reading practice.
Examples: セール, スーパー, ホテル, コンビニ
A photo print shop sign packed with katakana