Glossary of Terms

Understand key Yakuza Kiwami 2 terms like Aniki, Bento, Bubble, Captain, Chairman, Chinpira, Gokudo, Gravure, and more. Glossary for players.

This guide provides definitions for terms you'll encounter in Yakuza Kiwami 2's subtitles and dialogue, explaining their meaning and translation.

"Aniki"

Literally "big brother." In Japanese culture, younger brothers use this term for older brothers. Within the yakuza, "aniki" refers to a direct superior and someone to aspire to be like. Shinji Tanaka called Kiryu his "aniki" in Yakuza 1.

Bento

A boxed lunch, typically rectangular and containing rice or noodles with meat and vegetables. Bento can be purchased from convenience stores or prepared at home.

Bubble

Refers to the "bubble economy" or "baburu keizai" of the 1980s, characterized by a skyrocketing housing market. The yakuza profited from this era, with rumors of involvement in bad loans contributing to the bubble's eventual burst. Yakuza 0 is set during the peak of this economy, and Kiwami 2 contains references to it.

Captain

In Japanese, "wakagashira." The second-in-command of a yakuza family, essentially one step away from leadership. The captaincy of the Dojima Family was a key plot point in Yakuza 0. Shintaro Kazama served as the Dojima Family's captain and was also the patriarch of his own family.

Chairman

The highest-ranking yakuza leader, akin to a "godfather." The Chairman arbitrates for the families within an association and makes decisions for the group's benefit. They are often referred to by their succession number. Kazuma Kiryu was the Fourth Chairman ("yon-daime") of the Tojo Clan, and Yukio Terada is the current Fifth Chairman.

"Chinpira"

A term for low-level yakuza members or street punks, considered below the executive level. They often dress in tracksuits or flashy clothing. Kiryu is noted for often dressing like a "chinpira" despite his status.

Expulsion vs. Exile/Banishment

Hamonjo (expulsion) is a reversible notice stating one is no longer tied to the yakuza organization and is considered a civilian. Kiryu received this in Yakuza 0 and Yakuza 1. Zetsuenjo (exile/banishment) is an irreversible expulsion, where even associating with yakuza members results in severe hostilities. Kiryu expected this after his expulsion from the Tojo Clan.

Family

A yakuza organization led by a patriarch, known as "-kai" or "-gumi." Families can focus on a single business or control entire neighborhoods through rackets. Their size and influence vary greatly. Prominent families like the Kazama, Dojima, and Shimano families had seats at Tojo HQ.

"Gokudo"

Literally "the ultimate path," commonly meaning "gangsters." Yakuza members refer to themselves as "gokudo," often implying a favorable or honorable view of their organization. Subtitles may translate this as "yakuza."

Gravure

In Yakuza Kiwami 2, this refers to participating in photo shoots at a Gravure Studio. In Japan, "gravure" photos are softcore glamour shots of models, typically featuring swimsuits or lingerie, with a significant market for them in magazines and photobooks.

Honorifics

Japanese society uses honorifics more extensively than Western "Mister" or "Mrs." Most people are addressed with an honorific. In this game series, men are often referred to by their family name (e.g., Kiryu, Majima), while women are referred to by their given name (e.g., Yumi, Haruka). Omitting an honorific usually implies closeness or disrespect.