🧭 “Chau” = Kansai’s Way of Saying “That’s Not Right”
The word “chau” is the Kansai dialect version of “chigau” (違う),
which means “not true” or “that’s incorrect.”
It’s used to gently correct someone or deny something,
especially in friendly conversations.
You might also hear funny tongue-twisters like
“chau chau chau” (It’s not a Chow Chow dog!),
but don’t worry—people rarely say that in real life 😄
🔍 Standard Japanese vs. Kansai Dialect: “Chigau” vs. “Chau”
🗾 Standard Japanese
🔸 Example
それ、違うよ。(Sore, chigau yo.)
➡ That’s not right.
✅ Explanation
“Chigau” means “not correct” or “wrong.”
It’s used to reject or deny something politely.
🎯 Kansai Dialect
🔸 Example
それ、ちゃうで〜。(Sore, chau de~)
➡ That’s not it!
✅ Explanation
“Chau” is the Kansai equivalent of “chigau.”
Adding endings like “de” or “ya” makes it sound even more local.
💡 “Chau + de” is a common Kansai-style way to soften disagreement.
And yes, the “Chow Chow chau” joke exists—but it’s just for fun!
💬 Sample Phrases Using "Chau" in Kansai Dialect
Sore, chau de~
2️⃣ あの人、犯人ちゃうん？
Ano hito, hannin chaun?
3️⃣ あれ、ちゃうちゃうちゃう？
Are, chau chau chau?
4️⃣ ちゃうちゃう、ちゃうちゃうちゃう！
Chau chau, chau chau chau!
1️⃣ That’s not it.
2️⃣ Isn’t that person the culprit?
3️⃣ Isn’t that a Chow Chow?
4️⃣ No no, that’s not a Chow Chow!
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