| Kodansha's Furigana: Japanese-English Dictionary (A Kodansha dictionary)
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Browsing through the pages of Kodansha's Furigana Japanese-English Dictionary, you will notice that something is different: none of the Japanese entry words appearing in this book have been romanized. Some will be surprised by this feature, especially in that the book is seen as suitable for even absolute beginners. Others (particularly the Japanese-language instructors who pointed out the need for such a publication) will be delighted to find that a full-fledged furigana Japanese-English dictionary is finally available.
What is furigana and why is it so important?
Furigana refers to the small kana that are printed above or alongside kanji to show the pronunciation of the Chinese character. With furigana superscripts, the beginner who is familiar with hiragana and katakana is able to read even the most difficult and obscure kanji at a glance. Other publications either provide little or no guide to kanji readings or romanize some or all of the Japanese words and sentences. Previously, romanized Japanese dictionaries were of some value to students using textbooks that contained no Japanese script. Recently, however, an increasing number of influential curricula around the world are based on a rationale and methodology that demands the introduction of hiragana and katakana from the earliest stages. Learners and their teachers studying under such curricula will inevitably feel more comfortable with a dictionary such as Kodansha's Furigana Japanese-English Dictionary, one that shows the pronunciation of kanji with familiar and authentic kana script.
But it does not end there. The comprehensive 16,000-word basic vocabulary comprises a generous and balanced selection of native Japanese words, kanji compounds, and foreign loan words. Precise and informative definitions, written specifically for English speakers, offer expert guidance on points of grammar, meaning, style, orthography, pronunciation, and punctuation. Concise and insightful explanations clarify even the most troublesome cultural terms. In addition there are 50,000 sample sentences that provide a context-based understanding of how words are linked together to form authentic and natural Japanese sentences.
Features that help expand word power and increase vocabulary skills have also been included in Kodansha's Furigana Japanese-English Dictionary. Common collocations, derivatives, and compounds show how word-parts fit and work together. Comprehensive cross-referencing makes the learner aware of common synonyms and antonyms, clarifying both meaning and usage. Finally, three appendices explain in detail such complicated areas as conjugating verbs and adjectives, counting, and articulating foreign place names in Japanese.
All of this and more in a portable format and at an affordable price. Kodansha's Furigana Japanese-English Dictionary is the essential dictionary for all students of Japanese.
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By Micah Cowan (Silicon Valley, California)
This is a good, high-quality Japanese-English dictionary. Its fatal flaw is that is doesn't really contain sufficient entries to be truly practical. There are quite a few times when I've searched for a word in vain. Simple words like "koutsuuhi" (traveling expense; though it did have "koutsuu": traffic), or even "zarigani" (crayfish)!
Of course, this limited set of words is also what allows the dictionary to be printed at a legible font size, with excellent usage examples, furigana, and pages at least thicker than those of a compact Bible, all while still being quite portable. Additionally, an advanced user wishing to shore up his or her vocabulary would probably find this a very useful book, as with only 16,000 words.
Still, a dictionary isn't usually intended for vocabulary-building, but for looking words up; for that, you'd be better off with a somewhat more comprehensive dictionary.
By C. Munson (Pittsburgh, PA USA)
Wow, I can't believe I forgot about this! When I started learning Japanese, using this dictionary set the right foundation - don't be intimidated by Kanji and avoid using Roomaji. 10 years later (3 spent living and working in Japan), I speak and read fluently and love communicating in Japanese. I've long since lost the dictionary, but I remember that the example sentences were useful for my homework and realistic for everyday use. As soon as I moved to Japan, I dropped this for an electronic dictionary, but during my first 5 years of study, this and a Kanji dictionary were sufficient. I remember that this dictionary kept me motivated.
I never bought the E-J version because it was too pricey to buy both, but this is the one you really need. I would also consider pairing this with an E-J from a different brand. Different publishers choose different terms, and sometimes you need options!
I would discourage buying the J-E & E-J 2-in-1 book only because it's heavy and thick. I think that would discourage you from really using it to the fullest.
By Recep Sami Ciner (Ankara Turkey)
Basic but comprehensive, nearly every word is explained in sample sentences.I think these sentences may be useful in actual situations. I recommend Kodansha Dictionaries and Kenkyusha Japanese Learner's Dictionary.
By zolo (NY, NY United States)
well organized and pretty good definitions, but limited. Even just watching japanese news/tv, you quickly find yourself outpacing this dictionary.
By Bryan Hollar (Monterey, Ca.)
This dictionary has the kind of format I like best. There are plenty of example sentences and the font is clear and doesn't strain the eyes as some dictionaries of Asian languages tend to.
Furthermore, since the reader has no other option but to look up the English translation of Japanese words in Furiganga, there is constant Kana practice inherent in the design of the book. From an educator's standpoint, that is a very positive reinforcement tool for first and second year students who might still have trouble with Kana.
Nevertheess, I only wish this dictionary were more comprehensive for advanced students of the language.
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