Abbreviation quiz: things you might not actually know? From everyday terms to youth slang

Global Positioning System

"GPS" stands for "Global Positioning System," which in Japanese is called "全地球測位システム" (Zen Chikyū Sokui Shisutemu). It is a system that uses artificial satellites operated by the United States to accurately determine one’s current location on Earth. Originally developed as a military technology, it has now become widely used and indispensable in our daily lives, including in smartphone map apps, car navigation systems, and games.

ballpoint pen

We casually use the word “ballpoint pen” every day, but it’s actually an abbreviation; the full name is “ballpoint pen.” A minuscule metal ball is embedded at the very tip of the nib, and as it rotates while writing, it picks up the ink inside and transfers it onto the paper—hence the name.

Social networking service

SNS is an abbreviation for Social Networking Service. It is a general term for services that allow you to build relationships and share information with friends and acquaintances on the internet. Representative examples include X, Instagram, Facebook, and LINE. By the way, in English-speaking countries, it’s commonly called social media, and the term “SNS” often isn’t understood overseas, so be aware of that.

Part-time job place

“Basaki” is an abbreviation that refers to one’s part-time workplace (“arubaito-saki”). It’s frequently used in everyday conversations and on social media by young people, especially high school and college students. The word “baito-saki” itself is already a shortened form of “arubaito,” and it’s been shortened even further to “basaki.”

air conditioner

It’s a word formed by combining “air,” meaning “atmosphere,” and “conditioner,” meaning “something that regulates.” Nowadays everyone says “air-con,” but in the past we used to say “cooler.” The dual heating-and-cooling type appeared in 1960; until then, they only had a cooling function, which is probably why they were called “coolers.”

Subscription

“Subscri” is short for “subscription,” referring to content or services you use by paying a recurring fee monthly or annually. In our everyday lives, the way we listen to music has shifted from records to CDs, and then from downloads to subscriptions. While the sound quality of records is being appreciated again, subscription services that let you freely enjoy a wide range of genres are probably great for young people too.

Reschedule

It’s a term used in business settings to mean rescheduling or reworking plans. Because it’s an abbreviation and feels casual, it’s mainly used in conversations with colleagues or subordinates. It’s most often used when pushing a schedule back.