Publishing company Sanseido is about to release a dictionary of otaku culture titled Otaku Yōgo Jiten Dai Genkai (Otaku Glossary: Great Limit).
The new dictionary will contain updated and comprehensive terms commonly used in current otaku culture, contextualized with explanations and usage examples. Comprised of approximately 1,600 terms primarily currently used in the otaku community, this dictionary aims to cover a wide range of the pop culture spectrum. Its description suggests it is intended for a specific audience, pointing out that it is “A ‘limited’ dictionary where a female otaku student spends her youth on otaku terminology.” However, an overview of the book’s content shows that it plays a role in the broader otaku culture, as it includes chapters on topics and terms about J-pop, K -pop and video games.
Set for release on November 21, the dictionary is edited by Shoko Koide, associate professor at Nagoya College’s Department of Modern Liberal Arts. 12 girls from the same school contributed and compiled terms and definitions in the dictionary with the aim of updating readers on otaku jargon and its diverse meanings in “neighborhoods” and situations. Otaku terms are also explained and analyzed by knowledgeable otakus who make recommendations on how to use the words correctly or appropriately. This 288-page book will help veteran and aspiring otakus navigate the community’s ever-changing terminology.
Comprehensive coverage of Otaku terminology
Otaku Glossary: The Great Limit will have chapters dedicated to commonly used 2D, 3D, 2.5D (“Nijigen”) terms and general otaku terms, while the remainder will focus on general otaku terms. Niche dedicated to J-pop, K-pop, boys’ favorite communities and franchises including Arknights, Splatoon, Fire Emblem, Proseca, Pokémon and Genshin. The book is an insightful look at the culture; for example, it defines the acronym “ATM” as otaku slang for anyone who is able and willing to financially support a group, cause, or individual within the community, such as an idol pop music.
Otaku culture has moved from a small Japanese fan community to an international phenomenon, encompassing animation, manga, games, music, toys, art and literature. It is built on a creative and vibrant community of subcultures expressing their passions through artwork, cosplay, and fandom publications. The global community also regularly gathers and celebrates at conventions like Anime NYC and the annual San Diego Comic-Con.
An e-book version of Otaku Glossary: Big Limit will also be released on November 22.
Source: Sanseido