Frequent Use of Business Keigo in Conversations#

The main characters of this manga work at a construction company that specializes in renovations. Since the story primarily revolves around their interactions with clients, there are many scenes where they engage in proper business keigo, using both humble and respectful language.

Additionally, since the two main characters, Koume and Gennosuke, converse with each other using polite language, this manga features a high proportion of keigo and polite speech.

Source: Hoshizaki Maki, Maho no Rinobe (Futabasha Publishers)

The Everyday Nature of the Renovation Theme#

The reasons why clients seek renovations in this story are often to improve their quality of life or to address dissatisfaction with their current living conditions. Because the theme centers on daily life, the conversations naturally reflect topics rooted in everyday living. As a result, rather than showcasing keigo examples limited to specific business situations, the dialogues offer content that can be broadly applied to everyday conversations.

While the sections related to renovation naturally contain a bit more information due to the nature of the work, the overall text volume feels just right—not too much, not too little. Additionally, the effective use of large panels and well-balanced layout makes the manga very easy to read.

Source: Hoshizaki Maki, Maho no Rinobe (Futabasha Publishers)

From “Recommendation” to “Devoted Support”#

The noun 推し comes from the verb 推す (osu), which traditionally means “to recommend” or “to endorse.” In Japanese, 推す could be used in serious contexts—such as nominating someone for a position—with the nuance of recommending and actively supporting that person’s appointment. In such cases, 推す carries both the ideas of recommendation and encouragement or backing.

With the rise of modern idol culture, however, the noun 推し began to take on a more emotionally expressive and personal meaning. Fans started using it to refer to the idol, character, or performer they supported most passionately. For example:

「私の推しは〇〇です。」 – “My favorite (idol) is 〇〇.”

This fan usage emphasized devotion, cheering on, and personal admiration—shifting the nuance of 推す from formal endorsement to emotional allegiance.

A Word That Evolved with Culture#

Over time, this more personal sense of 推し became widespread in daily conversation, extending far beyond the world of idols. Today, people use it to describe their personal favorite in almost any category—cafés, pets, fashion brands, books, even houses.

Examples include:

「このパン屋さん、私の推しなんです。」
“This bakery is my favorite!”

「最近、推しの作家の新刊が出た。」
“My favorite author just released a new book.”

This expanded use reflects a broader cultural shift toward expressing personal enthusiasm and emotional attachment—something that resonates strongly in today’s Japan, especially among younger generations.

What It Means for Learners#

Understanding the term 推し gives learners valuable insight into both contemporary slang and how Japanese culture expresses personal preference and emotional attachment. Whether used seriously or playfully, 推し is a great example of how modern Japanese adapts language to reflect changing social trends.

So next time you hear someone talk about their 推し, remember—it could be a pop star, a dog, a snack, or even a secondhand house!

It Might Be Challenging If You’re Not Interested in Housing or Renovation#

Since this manga is set in the renovation industry, it includes a lot of information related to floor plans and housing. For those who aren’t interested in these topics, it might be difficult to keep reading.

Source: Hoshizaki Maki, Maho no Rinobe (Futabasha Publishers)