Did someone just tell you they were watching "Akatsuki" last night? What are they talking about? Is it a TV show or something? This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression.
Meaning
The word "Akatsuki" translates from the Japanese (暁), meaning "Daybreak" or "dawn." However, it's not a common word used by English people, so what are people talking about when referring to "Akatsuki" online?
You'll find the word in forums and chats dedicated to discussing the manga show of the same name.
The "Akatsuki" is a team of Shinobi warriors in the TV show. They live outside the traditional Japanese villages, much like the disavowed samurai warriors, the "ronin." Over several decades, the Akatsuki took on different forms and different leadership.
Each of the Akatsuki had multiple lairs spread in locations across the world. These dens are inaccessible due to the remoteness of the site. Others are impossible to penetrate because of the security measures protecting the lair. The show did extremely well online, with a huge following of manga enthusiasts.
Example Usage
"Have you watched that anime 'Akatsuki?' It's a crazy show and a great introduction to the ninja and Shinobi philosophy. I can't wait for the next episode."
"Akatsuki is a crazy show. It has an adult theme, so I wouldn't recommend letting young children watch it as it's pretty violent."
"Do you enjoy manga? Check out the show 'Akatsuki." It's all about the Shinobi and how they fell from grace. It's like watching a manga and the history channel at the same time."
"I love the storyline and artwork in Akatsuki. It's one of the top-rated manga of all time, and every episode is worth watching."
"Someone told me Akatsuki is hentai. However, they were wrong. It's a story about the Shinobi in Japan."
"If you enjoy the legend and mystery around the Shinobi, you have to check out Akatsuki. It's an amazing manga and worth the time invested in watching the show."
"There's no way I'm letting my kids watch Akatsuki. I think they get enough from their daily dose of Dragonball Z."
Origin
The expression “Akatsuki” is a Japanese word. The concept of “Akatsuki” comes from a manga series of the same name. The idea of Akatsuki was created by “Black Zetsu” to revive its mother. However, Black Zetsu pretended Madara Uchiha came up with the concept, tricking him into thinking it was a real manifestation of his will.
Yahiko founded the Atsuki during the “Third Shinobi World War.” He created the order alongside Nagato and Konan, his childhood friends. The trio created Akatsuki as a way to bring peace to their community in the wake of the Second Shinobi World War.
Tobi approached the trio, introducing himself as “Madara Uchiha.” Tobi stated Nagato is the reincarnation of “the Sage of Six Paths.” He offered to teach him the way of “Rinnegan,” but Yahiko didn’t trust him, prompting Nagato to reject the offer.
However, Tobi would claim he was responsible for encouraging Yahiko to form the Akatsuki without informing Konan of the move.
Phrases Similar to Akatsuki
- Daybreak.
- Morning.
- Sunrise.
Phrases Opposite to Akatsuki
- Nightfall.
What is the Correct Saying?
- Akatsuki.
Ways People May Say Akatsuki Incorrectly
Some people may use “Akatsuki” to describe daybreak. However, that’s not the common use of the word online. People will refer to the TV series of the same name, not daybreak. Using it to describe a sunset is also incorrect.
Acceptable Ways to Phrase Akatsuki
You can use “Akatsuki” when talking about the popular anime series of the same name. The show has a huge following online, and there are dedicated chatrooms and forums for discussing the show with other anime fans.
You won’t use the original meaning of “Akatsuki” (daybreak) as there are few Japanese speakers in the Western world. It only references the anime show and not the original meaning of sunrise or daybreak.