Glossary of Terms

Understand key terms like Aniki, Bento, Gokudo, and Yakuza honorifics in Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name.

Aniki - Literally translates to "big brother." In Japanese culture, younger siblings use this term for older brothers. Within the yakuza and business worlds, "aniki" refers to a mentor figure whom one follows to learn from. For example, Mitsuo calls Ichiban "aniki" early in the game.

Bento - A boxed lunch. Bento typically come in rectangular containers and usually contain rice or noodles as a base, with added meat and vegetables. They can be purchased from convenience stores or prepared by parents for children.

Cabaret Clubs and Host Clubs - Cabaret clubs, also known as "hostess clubs," originated from bars and taverns where hostesses entertained guests. Modern Japanese cabaret clubs, like "The Grand" in Sotenbori, are large establishments with stage acts and numerous hostesses who engage with customers by pouring drinks, lighting cigarettes, singing karaoke, and conversing flirtatiously. Sometimes, hostesses may go on paid dates outside the club with regular customers, a practice that borders on "sex work" but is officially part of the "water trade." Host clubs are a counterpart where women pay for male companionship, often frequented by hostesses themselves.

Captain - In yakuza terminology, this is the "wakagashira," the second-in-command of a yakuza family. The captain is essentially one step away from leading the family. Yuki Tsuruno, for instance, is the captain of the Watase Family.

Chairman - The highest leader of a yakuza association, akin to a "godfather." The Chairman arbitrates disputes and makes decisions for the families within the association. This position holds significant power and responsibility. Chairmen are typically referred to by their succession number; the current Chairman of the Tojo Clan is the sixth, Daigo Dojima.

Family - In the context of the yakuza, a "family" (denoted by "-kai" or "-gumi") is an organization headed by a patriarch. Families may focus on a single business or control entire neighborhoods through their rackets. Their size and influence can vary greatly, from small, low-profile groups to powerful, long-standing organizations. Smaller families can operate discreetly as long as they maintain their position and avoid causing trouble.

"Gokudo" - Literally means "the ultimate path," but is commonly used to mean "gangsters." Members of the yakuza often refer to themselves using this term. When subtitles translate this as "yakuza," the original Japanese word heard might be "gokudo." Characters using "gokudo" often express a favorable or honorable view of their organization.

Honorifics - Japanese society uses a complex system of honorifics, far more extensive than Western titles like "Mister" or "Mrs." Most individuals are addressed with an honorific attached to their name. In this game series, men are typically referred to by their family name (e.g., Kiryu, Hanawa, Tsuruno), while women are usually called by their given name (e.g., Akame). Addressing someone without an honorific implies either extreme closeness or deliberate rudeness. Common honorifics include:

• -chan - A diminutive honorific, often used by adults for children, conveying affection or a sense of "my dear" or "little." While boys typically transition to "-kun" as they age, girls may continue to be addressed with "-chan" into adulthood.
• -han - The Kansai region's variant of "-san." Its use indicates the speaker is from the Kansai region. Some yakuza may adopt a Kansai accent to appear tougher, even if they are not from the region.
• -kun - Another diminutive honorific, used for familiar individuals, or by senior members addressing younger ones. It is also commonly used among boys.
• -san - The most common honorific, analogous to "Mr." or "Mrs." It is used to show a basic level of politeness when addressing someone unfamiliar.
• -sensei - Typically means "teacher," but can also be used for professionals like lawyers, doctors, and politicians.
• -senpai - (The source text does not provide a definition for -senpai.)