Kanji curiosity

[khiemtran]

I just found out today that the kanji for "wagyuu" (as in "wagyu beef") are simply "wa" ("Japanese") and "gyuu" ("cow" or "beef"), both of which I already knew. Plus, I've been mispronouncing it all this time by not holding the final vowel.

Comments

[hikarugenji.livejournal.com]

Long vowels are always a sticking point for japanese students...

[khiemtran.livejournal.com]

Yes, especially with words that have already made it into English. But now I know the kanji, it should be a lot easier. Also, now I know that "wagyuu rhymes with yakyuu" and I'd never forget the long vowel on the end of yakyuu.