比較 · JLPT N5
私 vs 僕 vs 俺
watashi vs boku vs ore
私 (わたし) is the neutral, polite "I" for anyone; 僕 (ぼく) is a softer male "I"; 俺 (おれ) is a rough, casual male "I" used with friends.
The Japanese words for "I", who uses them, where, and how they sound, plus わたくし and あたし.
Side by side
| Who | Where | Sounds | |
|---|---|---|---|
| わたくし | Anyone | Very formal: speeches, business | Humble, stiff |
| 私 (わたし) | Anyone | Polite, neutral, everywhere | Standard |
| あたし | Mostly women | Casual | Soft, girlish |
| 僕 (ぼく) | Mostly men and boys | Casual to fairly polite | Gentle, boyish |
| 俺 (おれ) | Men | With friends and family | Rough, confident |
Which should a learner use?
Use 私 until you have a reason not to. It is correct for everyone in every situation, and it is what the JLPT uses.
Japanese also drops "I" whenever it is obvious: 「（私は）学生です」. Saying 私は in every sentence sounds heavy.
Side-by-side examples
Tap a kanji for its reading.
- 私は会社員です。I'm an office worker.Polite and neutral.
- 僕も行きたいな。I want to go too.A man or boy, relaxed.
- 俺がやるよ。I'll do it.A man with friends.
- わたくし、田中と申します。My name is Tanaka.Formal, humble.
Quick check
- A job interview: which "I"?
Show the answer
私 (or わたくし) · Formal settings need 私 or わたくし. - A man joking with close friends: which "I" sounds natural?
Show the answer
俺 · 俺 is casual and among friends. - Unsure? Which is always safe?
Show the answer
私 · Neutral for everyone.