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. In this week’s lesson, we will continue to focus on Black Clover. Third time’s the charm, and is there a manga more charming than Black Clover? Professor Jump is back after working hard to get this magical series all caught up with the Japanese release. Much thanks goes to my understudy for keeping things afloat while I was away.

MAJO (まじょ)

MAJO means “witch.” There may not be too many witches in Shonen Jump manga, but I’m betting that Black Clover will be full of them! We already have a pretty memorable one in Vanessa, whose magic abilities may be overshadowed by her drinking skills. I’m really looking forward to seeing what kind of crazy magic she can use in battle!

TORI (とり)

TORI means “bird.” There are lots of famous birds in manga, and One Piece has a classic in Karoo, the leader of the Supersonic Duck Squadron. Karoo and his squad are as brave as they come, and the Straw Hat crew never would have survived Alabasta without their help. While not as tough as Karoo, the Anti-birds from Black Clover are awesome in their own way. Well, they are hilarious comic relief at least. And one of them has befriended Asta! What will he name it? And will Noelle try to steal it for herself?!

HOSHI (ほし)

HOSHI means “star.” This is a word that shows up all over the place in Shonen Jump series. Jotaro’s Stand in JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure Part 3 is called Star Platinum and has pretty much unlimited power! In Toriko, one of the best seasonings in the world is called Melk Stardust. And in Black Clover, the Magic Knights are awarded stars when they do a great job. Thanks to the star that Asta earned, the Black Bulls upped their score to minus 30! Asta better get back to work...

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