For Seniors: What’s the real name behind this abbreviation? A quiz on the formal names of familiar terms you might not know

ballpoint pen

“Bōrupen” is an abbreviation of “ballpoint pen.” A ballpoint pen has a small metal ball at the tip, and as the ball rotates, it transfers ink onto the paper. It appeared in the 1940s and became popular because it was more convenient and quick-drying than traditional fountain pens. It’s a word we use casually in everyday life, but many people don’t know the full official name, so remembering it can make for a good conversation topic.

remote controller

“Rimokon” is officially an abbreviation of “remote controller” or “remote control.” “Remote” means “distant,” and “control” means “operate” or “regulate.” In other words, a “remote controller” is a device used to operate something from a distance. In Japan, the term was shortened to “rimokon” as a convenient way to refer to devices that let you operate TVs, air conditioners, lights, and more from afar.

World Exposition

Expo is an abbreviation of World Exposition. A World Exposition is a large international event where countries from around the world gather to showcase their industries, cultures, technologies, and more. The first one is said to have been the Great Exhibition in London in 1851, and in Japan, Expo '70 in Osaka and the Osaka-Kansai Expo scheduled for 2025 are well known. As the name suggests, it serves as a venue for international exchange and the unveiling of the latest technologies.

Speech Song

Enka was originally an abbreviation of “enzetsu-ka” (speech songs), which began in the Meiji era as songs that set the content of political and social speeches to music. Activists of the time spread their social and political messages by putting them to song, hence the name “enka,” from “speech + song.” While modern enka has its own distinctive lyrics and musical style, its etymology traces back to these “speech songs.”

Global Positioning System (GPS)

GPS stands for “Global Positioning System.” It is a satellite-based global positioning system operated by the United States that allows you to determine your location anywhere in the world. GPS is used for car navigation systems, map apps on smartphones, and for locating your position during activities like hiking and travel, making it a very familiar and useful technology.

convenience store

“Konbini” is an abbreviation for “convenience store.” A convenience store, which literally means “a convenient shop” in Japanese, refers to a place where you can easily buy drinks, food, daily necessities, and more. Located nearby and often open 24 hours with a wide range of services, they play a role in making our lives more convenient. In particular, for older adults, they serve as important places that support daily life, such as for shopping and paying utility bills.

soft-serve ice cream

“Soft cream” is an abbreviation of the English term “soft serve ice cream.” Here, “soft” refers to its smooth, tender texture. Instead of being hardened in a freezer, the ice cream is chilled while being mixed in a machine on the spot and served while still soft. The technique came to Japan from the United States after World War II and became popular. Although it’s not obvious from the everyday Japanese term “sofuto kuriimu,” it is in fact an abbreviation derived from English.