Packed with Honorific Language Used in Schools#

The main character, Mr. Hoshi, is a teacher who consistently uses polite language (keigo) when speaking to others. The manga showcases a wide range of keigo examples—between fellow teachers, from teachers to students, and from students to teachers—each reflecting subtle differences in nuance.

While the setting is a school, the examples of respectful speech can easily be applied to more general situations, such as conversations between coworkers in a typical office or between people of different ages. It’s a valuable resource for observing natural and contextual uses of keigo in everyday interactions.

Source: Wayama Yama, Onna no Sono no Hoshi(SHODENSHA)

Lots of Dialogue#

This work features a relatively high volume of dialogue, making it an excellent resource for intermediate to advanced learners who want to immerse themselves in plenty of natural Japanese text.

It might be a bit challenging for beginners, but there are some chapters with lighter dialogue, so it could be a good idea to start with those and ease into it.

Source: Wayama Yama, Onna no Sono no Hoshi(SHODENSHA)

What Is an “Adana”?#

In Japanese, the word for nickname is あだ名 (adana). While similar to English nicknames, adana carry both affectionate and critical nuances, depending on the context.

Adana often arise from:

・Physical appearance (e.g., “Megane” for someone who wears glasses)
・Personality traits (e.g., “Majime-kun” for a serious person)
・Puns or references (e.g., “Muji” based on style or behavior)
・Childhood names or speech patterns

In many cases, these names are created within tight-knit social circles such as classrooms, clubs, or sports teams.

A Familiar Pattern in Manga and Anime#

Nicknames are a frequent storytelling tool in Japanese pop culture. One of the most famous is Gian from Doraemon—his nickname comes from the English word “giant,” emphasizing his large size and strong presence. Other examples include:

・Kacchan (Bakugo from My Hero Academia), showing childhood familiarity
・Chibiusa (Sailor Moon), meaning “little Usagi,” used affectionately for a younger character
・Noppo (literally “tall guy”), often used for lanky or awkward characters

Such names are more than just labels—they communicate relationships, hierarchies, and emotional closeness.

Between Affection and Alienation#

In Japanese school life, adana often reflect group dynamics. A well-received nickname can create bonds, showing closeness and acceptance. For example:

・Calling a friend “Tacchan” instead of “Takeshi” might signal intimacy.
・Referring to a teacher as “Yama-chan” might soften authority into familiarity.

However, adana can also become tools for exclusion or ridicule. When based on negative traits (e.g., weight, behavior, or background), they may cross the line into ijime (bullying). This dual nature makes the practice both culturally rich and potentially problematic.

Recent Moves Toward Reform#

In recent years, Japanese schools have started to reconsider the use of nicknames. Some school policies now discourage or ban adana entirely, especially when they relate to physical traits or could lead to bullying.

Teachers are encouraged to address students by their full names or surnames with honorifics (e.g., “Tanaka-san”) to promote respect and equality. These efforts reflect broader social movements in Japan to make schools safer and more inclusive environments.

Summary#

Nicknames—or adana—are a distinctive feature of Japanese school life, blending affection, humor, and sometimes conflict. Whether found in classrooms or in manga, these names offer insight into group dynamics, cultural values, and language play in Japan.

For Japanese learners, understanding adana means more than just learning vocabulary. It’s a chance to explore how language reflects emotion, identity, and social structure in a uniquely Japanese way. So the next time you hear someone called “Muji-sensei,” you’ll know there’s more behind the name than meets the eye.

Risk of Missing the Context#

Since this is a high-concept work that presents Japanese culture from a slightly offbeat or satirical angle, international readers might find it hard to grasp exactly what makes certain parts funny or interesting.

Source: Wayama Yama, Onna no Sono no Hoshi(SHODENSHA)