6. Word meanings

Some words have confusing meanings or double meanings. For example otaku has been adopted by Western fans of Japanese comics and animated films, but what does the word really mean? See 6.2. What is an otaku?. Others worry whether they are being insulted by being described as gaijin (see 6.3. Is gaijin a derogatory term?) or whether a tanuki is really a badger (see 6.6. Is a tanuki a badger?). See also 1.2.1. What are the origins of the kanji for sushi? about the meaning of the word sushi.