How to Say ‘Grandfather’ in Japanese
おじいさん
o jii san
[oh jee sahn]
💬 Usage Tip: [おじいさん] can mean “grandfather” or “old man,” depending on context, but be careful: context decides whether it sounds affectionate or just descriptive.
🇯🇵 In Japan: Japanese often uses family-style words for age groups in everyday speech, but tone and situation matter a lot.
Phrase Breakdown
お
o
[oh]
honorific prefix
A polite prefix often used in family words and respectful expressions.
おじいさんは元気です。
Grandfather is well.
じい
jii
[jee]
grandfather / old man
The main part of おじいさん, referring to a grandfather or elderly man.
じいは公園にいます。
Grandpa is in the park.
さん
san
[sahn]
Mr. / polite person suffix
A polite suffix attached to people's titles or roles.
おじいさんは親切です。
The old man is kind.
Get the Full Learning Experience
This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.
Pronunciation Feedback
AI-powered speech recognition to perfect your accent
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Custom Scenarios
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
Get Full LessonWhat Learners Are Saying
“Teaching in Osaka and I wanted to connect with my students beyond the classroom. The everyday conversation scenarios made my Japanese feel natural, not textbook-y.”
Mia S., 25, English Teacher
“Moved to Tokyo and the polite vs. casual speech levels were killing me. This app breaks it all down with real scenarios. My coworkers noticed the difference in weeks.”
Kevin Z., 31, Game Developer
“I tried five different apps before this one. The roleplay conversations are what finally made things click. I actually remember what I learn now.”
Sofia R., 31, Marketing Manager