What Does Banzai Mean? How Did This Expression Come About?

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What does banzai mean? How did this expression come about?

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Kevin

Do you know the meaning of the Word Banzai? Why do the Japanese scream this expression? When they scream Banzai? What is the origin of this expression? What is Banzai Charge? We will answer everything in this article.

Is Banzai just a simple interjection in the Japanese language used to greet a person and wish him long life and prosperity ? Before we start let's leave a summary below:

The meaning of the word Banzai

The word Banzai [万歳] that the Japanese often shout literally means 10 thousand (万) years of life (歳 - age). A word with an equivalent meaning to "Long live the King" and things like that!

Nowadays it is still confused as a battle cry, mainly because the kamikaze shouted Banzai before blowing themselves up in World War II. For this reason, screaming is often associated with the practice of desperate actions.

But currently the Japanese shout Banzai with the meaning of "Long live", "Long life", "Hurrah!" and things like that. Nowadays its meaning has nothing to do with wars or greeting the emperor. Banzai has always meant long life or 10 thousand years of life.

Origin of the word banzai

The word originated in the Meiji period, when the Japanese attacked in war, they would shout banzai in salute to their emperor. Initially the word was part of the expression "Tennoheikabanzai" (天皇陛下万岁) which means " Long Live the Emperor ".

Every country usually has its version of Banzai, or a rallying cry! Going into details of the origin of the word (万歳), it has roots from Classical Chinese, from which the same expression was derived for Mandarin 'wànsuì” or Cantonese “maan6 seoi3” (萬歳), Korean 'mansé (만세 / 萬歲) and even Vietnamese (vạn tuế).

Therefore, the expression, although famous for its Japanese use, did not initially appear in Japan, it is a common expression, which can be used and created in any language.

Banzai Charge - Japanese Infantry Frontal Attack

Banzai Charge or gyokusai [玉砕] or banzai totsugeki [バンザイ突撃] is the term used by the Allies to refer to a mass frontal attack by Japanese infantry military forces.

Its origin also comes from the battle cry that we have just spoken. This cry was formed in the traditional Japanese armed forces when they launched an attack, spoke out for a superior objective or achievement.

Banzai Charge specifically refers to a tactic used by Japanese soldiers during the Pacific War. This tactic resulted in some successful feats at the end of the battle, where the American enemies were caught off guard.

Despite all this, the banzai charge can be considered one of the least efficient strategies used in the Pacific War, due to the casualty rate among Japanese and Americans.

The Banzai Charge became better known in the Sino-Japanese War by the Chinese and by the Allies at the Battle of Guadalcanal. Japanese soldiers utter the banzai cry for the achievement of an objective.

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Why do the Japanese scream Banzai?

Nowadays the Japanese chant banzai three times in festivities, being a peaceful and happy expression. There are other occasions when the Japanese scream like:

• When someone gets married.
• When accepted into a large university;
• At some birthday parties;
• A colleague who was promoted in a company;

Some shout and give a big jump with their hands up. Others simply raise their hands up. Banzai is a famous war cry and celebration in Japan and even in the West.

Banzai has become one of the most chosen words in businesses, ventures, and stores that have origins or allude to some Eastern country. Whether it's a restaurant, stores, or martial arts schools.

It's a quite simple term with not many secrets; I hope this article has answered your questions.

Alternatives to Banzai

If you are looking for alternatives to this expression, here are some options:

1. Yatta! (やった！): Expression of joy and satisfaction, like "I did it!" or "we did it!".
2. Ganbaru (頑張る): Means "to do your best" or "to strive", used to encourage someone to give their best.
3. Sugoi! (すごい！): Expression of surprise and admiration, similar to "incredible!" or "impressive!".
4. Katsu! (勝つ！): Means "to win" and can be used in competition or challenge situations.
5. Saikou! (最高！): Translates to "the best" or "the maximum", expressing enthusiasm and admiration.

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Kevin Henrique Creator of Suki Desu

Specialist with over 10 years of experience in Asian culture, focusing on Japan, Korea, Animes, and Games. Self-taught, writer, and traveler focused on teaching Japanese, travel tips, and engaging and deep curiosities.