Japanese · Daily Life
電話
denwa
Telephone / Phone call
Beginnernoun
Definition
A device for voice communication, also referring to the act of calling. Japanese phone etiquette is distinctive, including special greetings like もしもし (moshi moshi) when answering.
Example
後で電話してもいいですか？
Is it okay if I call later?
Etymology
'電話' (denwa) combines the kanji '電' (den, 'electricity') and '話' (wa, 'talk'), marking the invention of the telephone in Japan. The term reflects the modern invention's technological nature.
How & Where It’s Used
'電話' (denwa) is used in formal and informal contexts when discussing communication. It appears in both spoken and written Japanese, applicable across various settings.