[Word Chain / Word Play] Words that start with “gu”
There are lots of words that start with “gu” in Japanese, aren’t there?
While there are plenty of difficult words too, here we’ll focus on popular ones that are easy to explain if someone asks, “What does it mean?” after you answer.
We’ll include katakana words and English-derived terms, but they’re all commonly used and often heard, so even elementary school children can use them for shiritori or word games.
They’re introduced by character count, so feel free to use this when you’re stuck on a crossword answer!
- Animal names that start with “zu.” Perfect for shiritori and word game hints!
- Tongue twisters that will make you laugh out loud! Super funny
- A collection of words that start with “de”. Perfect for shiritori and word games.
- Useful for word games and shiritori too! Animal names that start with “ko” (the “ko” sound)
- [Play Right Away!] Exciting Recreation Games Recommended for Elementary School Students
- [Great for word game hints!] Words that start with “te”
- Brain-teasing game roundup
- [Surprisingly hard to recall?] Food names starting with 'go' by character count
- Let's learn the names of animals and creatures that start with 'yo'!
- Games you can play with just conversation. Classic and popular activities you can enjoy without any props!
- [Hard-to-Read Quiz] Single-character difficult kanji — including surprisingly simple ones!
- [By character count] Names of animals and living creatures that start with “gi”
- [By character count] Words that start with “bu.” Hints for shiritori and word games.
4 letters (1–10)
even number
Even numbers also start with “gu.” By the way, an even number is, simply put, a number that is divisible by 2.
Group
There are words we often hear that include “group.” If you want to increase the character count, you can adapt it to something like “group company.”
5 characters (1–10)
ultramarine (gunjō)
Ultramarine is also known as the title of songs and the name of alcoholic drinks.
It’s a word that refers to a richly colored, deep shade of blue.
Global
In business settings, the word “global” is often used.
“Global” means “on a worldwide scale.”
Grand Prix
The word “Grand Prix” is commonly used, but do you know its original meaning? It actually comes from French and means “grand prize.”
6 characters (1–10)
Gunkanjima (Battleship Island)
Gunkanjima, a World Heritage site in Nagasaki City, also starts with the letter “gu.” Using this word might spark an interest in history.
Grinder
Do you know what a grinder is? A grinder is a tool with a grinding wheel attached to its tip that rotates.
If you’ve never seen one, it might be a good idea to look it up.


