たばこ — meaning in English: Tobacco

tabako · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for cigarette

風

kaze

崩壊

houkai

違反

ihan

起源

kigen

たばこ

tabako

Skip this question

🎓

Learn Japanese for free

Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.

Start learning →

Already have an account? Log in

neutral common

Usage

Native speakers commonly use the word たばこ (tabako) in social settings, such as when discussing smoking habits or when ordering at a café or bar. It can also come up in conversations around health or government regulations related to tobacco use.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is 煙草 (えんそう, ensou), which is another term for tobacco but is considered more literary or formal. While たばこ (tabako) is the more commonly used term in everyday conversation, you might choose 煙草 (ensou) in a historical or literary context.

Culture

The word たばこ (tabako) has its roots in the Spanish word 'tabaco,' which reflects the historical influence of trade in tobacco across the globe. In Japan, tobacco has played a significant role in social customs, with the introduction of smoking becoming popular during the Edo period, leading to uniquely Japanese practices like the use of decorative tobacco cases.

FAQ

Q.What does たばこ mean in English?

たばこ (tabako) translates to 'tobacco' in English. It refers to the plant and its processed leaves used for smoking or chewing.

Q.Is smoking common in Japan?

Yes, smoking has been quite common in Japan, though recent years have seen a decline due to stricter laws and a growing health consciousness among the population.

Q.How do you pronounce たばこ?

たばこ is pronounced 'ta-ba-ko,' with each syllable clearly enunciated. Remember to keep the 'a' sounds short and crisp.

Learn japanese with Maspeak →

Japanese 2000