N
ClearHorizon News

How to pronounce anime

Author

Matthew Wilson

Updated on January 02, 2026

Table of Contents

How is anime actually pronounced?

Anime” is the abbreviated pronunciation of “animation” in Japanese. So, the correct way (I mean, the Japanese way) of saying it would be “aa-ni-may”.

How do you say anime in Japanese?

The correct pronunciation of anime is Ah-nee-meh. The difference is that the final syllable is not pronounced with an “ey” sound, but it is pronounced with a short “e”, which is with an “eh” sound.

Is anime a Japanese word?

In Japan and in Japanese, anime (a term derived from the English word animation) describes all animated works, regardless of style or origin. However, outside of Japan and in English, anime is colloquial for Japanese animation and refers specifically to animation produced in Japan.

Is anime called anime in Japan?

The dispute typically begins here: the word “anime” (shortened from “animēshon“) is the Japanese pronunciation of the word “animation.” In Japan, the word is often used as a blanket term for all animated content no matter where it’s from. So, even though it’s not Japanese, it’s anime.