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 once again focuses on Naruto! As one of Shonen Jump’s greatest series heads for an exciting conclusion, let’s take a look at some of the memorable lines of the last few weeks.

SAIGO (さいご)

SAIGO means “the end” or “the final.” And was there ever a doubt that the series would conclude with a final battle between Naruto and Sasuke? This fight has been building since the third chapter of the series, and boy was it worth the wait. It was particularly cool seeing the former teammates pounding on each other with their fists because they had no more chakra left to do special moves. 

ITAI (いたい)

ITAI means “to hurt” or “pain.” All I can think about right now is how much pain I’m going to be in in the future with no more new Naruto chapters. Hopefully Sasuke will cry for me like he did when Naruto was able to express his true feelings for his best friend. Naruto, you will be missed!

AKIRAMERU (あきらめる)

AKIRAMERU means “to give up,” but what you really need to learn is the negative form, AKIRAMENAI! Naruto has always refused to give up, no matter the odds. And thanks to his iron will, he was finally able to wear Sasuke down. It made me laugh that Sasuke admitted his defeat because Naruto still wanted to fight even as they both lay on the ground, nearly dead from their wounds.

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