Why Americans Shorten Yoshinobu Yamamoto's Name to "Yoshi" and Omit "Nobu"
Posted inJapan Celebrity Gossip

Why Americans Shorten Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s Name to “Yoshi” and Omit “Nobu”

Reader’s Question:
When Americans pronounce Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s name, why do they say “Yoshi Yamamoto”? What is the reason for omitting the “Nobu”? It’s strange that they can’t pronounce “Nobu” even though there is a similar sound in English. Can someone explain this to me?

How Americans Pronounce “Yoshinobu Yamamoto”

Recently, while chatting with friends, the topic of how Americans say Yoshinobu

Understanding the Importance of Name Readings: Why Some Names Cause More Confusion Than Others
Posted inJapan Celebrity Gossip

Understanding the Importance of Name Readings: Why Some Names Cause More Confusion Than Others

Question from a reader:
I heard that Koayabu-san has been frequently asked about the reading of his name, “Kazu-toyo,” and finds it quite troublesome. He mentioned on television that children should have names that they can read. However, names like Hamada-san’s and Takefusa Kubo’s are also difficult; why does Koayabu-san seem to be the only one complaining?

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