語り手 (katarite - narrator)
Grammar & Usage
How it works
Formed by combining the stem (continuative form) of the verb 語る (kataru, 'to tell/narrate') with the agentive suffix 手 (te, 'doer/person'). It functions as a standard noun and is extensively used both in general storytelling contexts and in literary theory (narratology). It typically contrasts with 聞き手 (kikite, 'listener/audience') and 作者 (sakusha, 'author').
Sample sentences
この小説は、信頼できない語り手によって描かれている。
This novel is depicted through an unreliable narrator.
彼はドキュメンタリー番組で語り手を務めた。
He served as the narrator for the documentary program.
語り手の視点が変わることで、物語の印象が大きく異なる。
The impression of the story changes significantly as the narrator's perspective shifts.
Quick facts
Mnemonic
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Example
この小説は、信頼できない語り手によって描かれている。
This novel is depicted through an unreliable narrator.
彼はドキュメンタリー番組で語り手を務めた。
He served as the narrator for the documentary program.
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