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 focus on the newest addition to the magazine, the exciting limited series THE COMIQ. What a treat it is to be able to read a new manga expertly crafted by a legend like Takahashi Sensei!

FURIKO (振り子)

FURIKO is the name of the main character in the manga within the manga of THE COMIQ. This new series in Shojo Jump is called Pendulum of Love, and FURIKO means “pendulum.” Perfect naming once again! However, the verb FURARERU can mean “to be dumped or rejected.” Does this mean that FURIKO’s love will turn sour? But perhaps the manga artist has bigger issues than his main character’s love life to worry about; like solving a murder case!

GENKOU (げんこう)

GENKOU means “manuscript.” It’s the word used to indicate manga pages. Young manga artist Ryota has his GENKOU data seemingly erased in chapter 1 of THE COMIQ. Is there a worse fate for an artist on a tight deadline? Fortunately, it appears that he had a backup.

HAIKEI (はいけい)

HAIKEI means “background” or “scenery.” In terms of manga, it describes the art in the background. In THE COMIQ, young artist Ryota isn’t the best at drawing complex HAIKEI. So his editor hires a mysterious artist to help him out. And as the final page in chapter 1 says, this is the beginning of how a manga artist and his assistant bring about an unbelievable miracle!

Read the latest chapter of The COMIQ in Weekly Shonen Jump!