Kansai Dialect Mini-Lesson #41
What does “bebe べべ" mean?
“Bebe” is a Kansai dialect word meaning “last place” or “the lowest rank.”
It’s the opposite of “icchan” (number one).
Just like “mebachiko,” it’s one of those words I only recently found out is specific to the Kansai region.
Apparently, I need to talk to more people from the Kanto area to keep learning things like this…
🧭 What kind of situations use “bebe”?
“Bebe” is a casual Kansai dialect term used when someone comes in last—whether in a test, a game, or even a race.
It carries a slightly humorous, self-deprecating tone, making it perfect when talking about your own failures with a smile.
Unlike more neutral words like “saikai” or “saitei,” “bebe” has a regional flavor and is more often used in spoken, informal settings.
You’ll often hear Kansai natives say things like “mata bebe yatta wa…” (I was last again…) with a laugh.
🔍 What’s the difference between “biri” and “bebe”?
🗾 Standard Japanese
🔸 Example
またビリだったよ〜…(Mata biri datta yo~…)
➡ I was dead last again…
✅ Note
“Biri” is commonly used across Japan. It’s casual and covers rankings in tests, races, competitions, and more.
🎯 Kansai Dialect
🔸 Example
またべべやったわ〜…(Mata bebe yatta wa~…)
➡ I ended up in last place again…
✅ Note
“Bebe” works not just for grades and races, but for games, rock-paper-scissors, and any situation with a ranking.
💡 A fun word for laughing at your own misfortune—try using “bebe” to lighten the mood!
💬 Sample Phrases Using "bebe" in Kansai Dialect
Mae no tesuto, kurasu de bebe yatta wa…
2️⃣ またべべやってん、泣きそうやわ〜
Mata bebe yatten, nakisōyawa~
3️⃣ じゃんけんでもべべかいな！
Janken demo bebe kai na!
1️⃣ I came in dead last on the last test…
2️⃣ I was last again… I could cry.
3️⃣ Even in rock-paper-scissors, I’m the last one!
✨ Ready to Learn Real Japanese?
Start your journey into Kansai dialect and natural conversation with Kentaro – a native tutor who makes learning fun and effective.
👉 Book your free trial lesson now and see the difference!
🕒 Flexible schedule ・ 💬 Conversational focus ・ 🌏 Lessons in English or Chinese