Here's a breakdown:
* Family Name (姓, Sei): This comes first in the Japanese name order, and is usually inherited from the father. There are a limited number of family names, and they often reflect things like origin, profession, or even physical characteristics.
* Given Name (名, Mei): This is the name a person is given at birth, and there's a much wider range of possibilities. It can be chosen for a variety of reasons, including meaning, sound, or family tradition.
Example:
* Suzuki Hanako (鈴木 花子):
* Suzuki (鈴木) is the family name
* Hanako (花子) is the given name
A few things to keep in mind:
* Order: Japanese names are written and spoken with the family name first, followed by the given name. This is opposite to many Western cultures.
* Gender: While many names are gender-neutral, some are more common for one gender or the other.
* Pronunciation: Japanese names can be tricky to pronounce for non-native speakers. There are specific rules for pronunciation that can be learned.
To learn more about specific Japanese names:
* Online name databases: Many websites offer information about Japanese names, including their meanings and origins.
* Japanese dictionaries: Japanese dictionaries often include a section on names.
* Japanese language resources: Books and websites dedicated to learning Japanese can provide insights into Japanese names and their cultural significance.