Welcome to the Nihongo Lesson feature. We strive to give you useful manga-based Japanese language tips and maybe even a glimpse into the translation process. This week's lesson will feature some terms from the hilarious manga Naruto: Chibi Sasuke's Sharingan Legend ! This parody series that takes place in the world of Naruto is one of the many new manga that are available for free on this site!

NAMERUNA (なめるな)

NAMERUNA is one of the most common phrases in Shonen Jump manga that features lots of hot-blooded characters. It literally means "don't lick me," but the colloquial meaning is "don't mock me" or "don't underestimate me." This phrase is often spouted by plucky characters who are being insulted by the villain or their rival. Or in Sasuke's case, when his hair is on fire!

NATTO (なっとう)

Speaking of not licking things... NATTO is a traditional Japanese food made from fermented soybeans. It is extremely slimy and stinky. Many Japanese people eat it for breakfast. It is also one of Sasuke's greatest weaknesses. See Sasuke stage an all-out battle against NATTO in the first chapter of Chibi Sasuke's Sharingan Legend. If he can't beat stinky beans, how will he ever be able to win against his brother Itachi?!

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