Updated Manga and Pokémon Lingo Revealed in New Otaku Dictionary Release

Sanseido Publishing Company is set to release a dictionary titled "Otaku Yōgo Jiten Dai Genkai" (Otaku Terms Dictionary: The Great Limit) that focuses on the otaku culture. This comprehensive dictionary will provide updated terminology commonly used in the current otaku community, complete with explanations and examples of usage. With approximately 1,600 staple terms, it covers a wide range of the pop culture spectrum. While it is described as a dictionary dedicated to otaku terminology by a female student who devoted her youth to it, a closer look at its contents reveals that it also encompasses other aspects of otaku culture, including chapters on J-pop, K-pop, and gaming subculture topics and terms.

Set to be released on Nov. 21, the dictionary has been edited by Shoko Koide, who is an associate professor at Nagoya Junior College's Department of Modern Liberal Arts. A group of 12 girls from the same school has contributed to and compiled the terms and definitions in the dictionary. The main objective of this dictionary is to provide readers with updated information about otaku lingo and its various meanings in different "neighborhoods" and situations. The otaku terms are further interpreted and analyzed by knowledgeable individuals within the otaku community, who also provide recommendations on the correct and appropriate usage of these words. With its 288 pages, this book aims to keep both aspiring and experienced otaku in the loop with the constantly evolving jargon of the community.

Comprehensive Coverage of Otaku Terminology

The Otaku Terms Dictionary: The Great Limit covers various categories of otaku terminology such as 2D, 3D, 2.5D ("Nijigen"), and general terms. Additionally, it explores niche terms specific to J-pop, K-pop, boys' love communities, and popular franchises like Arknights, Splatoon, Fire Emblem, Proseca, Pokémon, and Genshin. This book provides insightful insights into the culture, including defining otaku slang like "ATM" as someone who financially supports a group, cause, or person within the community.

Otaku culture has evolved from being a niche fandom in Japan to becoming a global phenomenon that encompasses various forms of entertainment such as animation, comics, games, music, toys, art, and literature. This culture thrives through a vibrant community of subcultures expressing their passion through artwork, cosplay, and publications dedicated to fandom. The global otaku community also comes together regularly to celebrate their shared interests at events like Anime NYC and San Diego Comic-Con.

An e-book version of Otaku Terms Dictionary: The Great Limit will also be released on Nov. 22.

Source: Sanseido