How common is it for girls to use “boku” in Japan?

Published October 20, 2010

Question by medicky medic: How common is it for girls to use “boku” in Japan?
We are taught that girls customarily use “watashi” unless they want to sound really feminine (atashi) or are tomboys (boku). And of course, Japanese TV series would give us that impression too.

But I’ve heard from my Japanese friends that “boku” is actually a lot more common amongst girls than the media would have us believe. Besides, I have heard a few female Japanese exchange students using “boku”, at least while talking between themselves.

So exactly how common is it for girls in Japan to use “boku”?

For teenagers and young adults? (i.e. 15-25)
For older adults? (less common, I’m assuming?)
And children? (perhaps even more common?)

Would it vary by region? Kansai vs. Kanto?

Best answer:

Answer by cassidys_mum22
I wouldn’t say boku over there, I have been taught that if I say boku I am saying I’m a boy. Why bother?? I don’t know that much into it but I would just stick with watashi.

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