The Most Popular Anime Phrase, Ranked

Choose the anime phrase you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Apr 25, 2024 06:28
In the dynamic world of anime, phrases often capture the essence of entire episodes or the core of a character's personality in just a few memorable words. Fans carry these words with them, quoting them in daily conversations, at conventions, or when connecting with fellow enthusiasts online. Understanding the impact of these phrases gives both new and seasoned viewers insights into what makes certain anime stand out. By participating in this voting process, you contribute to a collective celebration of anime culture and help highlight the phrases that resonate the most with audiences worldwide. This creates a continuously updated list reflecting current trends and fan favorites, encouraging a deeper engagement and appreciation within the community. Let your vote count in shaping this homage to the spirit of anime.

What Is the Most Popular Anime Phrase?

  1. 1
    78
    votes

    Believe it!

    Masashi Kishimoto
    Naruto Uzumaki's catchphrase in Naruto. It became a popular meme and catchphrase among fans of the series.
    The phrase 'Believe it!' is a popular catchphrase from the anime series Naruto. It is primarily associated with the main character Naruto Uzumaki, who frequently adds it at the end of his sentences to emphasize his determination and enthusiasm.
    • Origin: First appeared in Naruto anime series
    • Catchphrase: Used by Naruto Uzumaki
    • Emphasis: Highlights Naruto's determination and enthusiasm
    • Intentional repetition: Used frequently to create a distinct character trait
    • Localization: Adapted differently in English translations (e.g., 'Dattebayo!')
  2. 2
    25
    votes
    Light Yagami's iconic line from Death Note. It became a popular meme and is often used to express a nonchalant attitude.
    The phrase 'I'll take a potato chip...and eat it!' is a popular quote from the anime series 'Death Note.' It is a memorable scene from the show, where the character Light Yagami, who possesses a supernatural notebook that can kill anyone whose name is written in it, dramatically eats a potato chip while engaged in a high-stakes mind game with his rival, L. The quote has become iconic in the anime community and is often used in memes and parodies.
    • Anime series: Death Note
    • Manga creators: Tsugumi Ohba and Takeshi Obata
    • Anime director: Tetsurō Araki
    • Studio: Madhouse
    • Quote origin: Episode 7 of 'Death Note' anime
    I'll take a potato chip...and eat it! in other rankings
  3. 3
    7
    votes
    Vegeta's famous line from Dragon Ball Z. It became a popular meme and catchphrase among fans of the series.
    The phrase 'It's over 9000!' is a famous meme originated from a scene in the anime 'Dragon Ball Z'. In this scene, the character Vegeta confronts Goku and remarks that his power level, measured in units called 'scouters', is over 9000. The phrase has gained widespread popularity due to its humorous and exaggerated delivery.
    • Anime: Dragon Ball Z
    • Origin: Episode 21, 'The Return of Goku'
    • Character: Vegeta
    • Phrase: It's over 9000!
    • Context: Vegeta reacts to Goku's increasing power level
  4. 4
    10
    votes
    I'm in despair!
    Albrecht Dürer · Public domain

    I'm in despair!

    Koji Kumeta
    Nozomu Itoshiki's catchphrase from Sayonara Zetsubou Sensei. It became a popular meme and is often used to express a feeling of hopelessness or despair.
    The phrase 'I'm in despair!' is a famous catchphrase from the anime series 'Sayonara, Zetsubou-Sensei'. It is a comedic exclamation that is often used by the main character, Nozomu Itoshiki, to depict his exaggerated sense of hopelessness and despair. The phrase has become an iconic meme in the anime community and is often used in various contexts to express exaggerated disappointment or frustration.
    • Series Title: Sayonara, Zetsubou-Sensei
    • Main Character: Nozomu Itoshiki
    • Genre: Comedy
    • Catchphrase: 'I'm in despair!'
    • Origin: Manga series
  5. 5
    13
    votes
    Advent Children. It became a popular catchphrase among fans of the series.
    "Let's mosey!" is a catchphrase associated with the character Cloud Strife from the popular video game Final Fantasy VII.
    • Origin: Final Fantasy VII
    • Character: Cloud Strife
    • Meaning: Encouragement to take action or move forward
    • Context: Commonly used during moments of decision-making or when facing challenges
    • Popularization: Gained popularity through the widespread success of Final Fantasy VII
  6. 6
    17
    votes
    Goku's signature move from Dragon Ball. It became a popular catchphrase and is often used to express excitement or enthusiasm.
    The phrase 'Kamehameha!' is a widely recognized special attack phrase from the popular anime series Dragon Ball. It is often associated with the character Goku, who is known for using this technique in various forms throughout the series. The attack involves focusing one's energy into the hands and then releasing it as a powerful blast of energy. The phrase is typically shouted by the character while performing the attack, adding to its iconic status.
    • Anime Series: Dragon Ball
    • Manga Series: Dragon Ball
    • Debut: First appeared in Dragon Ball Chapter 230, titled 'Kamehameha'
    • Pronunciation: KAH-may-HAH-may-HAH!
    • Character: Goku (Son Goku)
  7. 7
    10
    votes
    Kenshiro's catchphrase from Fist of the North Star. It became a popular meme and catchphrase among fans of the series.
    The phrase 'Omae wa mou shindeiru' is a famous catchphrase from the Japanese manga and anime series 'Hokuto no Ken' (Fist of the North Star). It is translated to English as 'You are already dead.' The phrase is often exclaimed by the main character Kenshiro before defeating his opponents.
    • Origin: First appeared in 'Hokuto no Ken' manga in 1983
    • Anime Adaptation: The catchphrase gained popularity through the anime adaptation of 'Hokuto no Ken' which aired from 1984 to 1987
    • Context: Kenshiro uses the phrase as a warning to his opponents that they are already mortally wounded before they even realize it
    • Pronunciation: The phrase is pronounced as 'oh-mah-eh wah moh shin-deh-ee-roo' in Japanese
    • Impact: Became an iconic line associated with 'Hokuto no Ken' and is often referenced in other anime series and popular culture
  8. 8
    11
    votes
    Kamina's catchphrase from Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann. It became a popular catchphrase among fans of the series.
  9. 9
    6
    votes
    Shirou Emiya's monologue from Fate/stay night. It became a popular catchphrase among fans of the series.
    The phrase 'I am the bone of my sword' is a popular anime quote that originates from the visual novel and anime series Fate/stay night. It is part of a longer incantation known as the 'Unlimited Blade Works chant' recited by the character Archer.
    • Origin: Fate/stay night visual novel and anime series
    • Character: Archer
    • Incantation: Unlimited Blade Works chant
    • Original Language: Japanese
    • Meaning: Expresses the identity and determination of the character as a warrior
  10. 10
    10
    votes
    Sebastian Michaelis's line from Black Butler. It became a popular catchphrase among fans of the series.
    The phrase 'I'm not interested in ordinary humans' is a popular catchphrase in anime, often used by characters to convey their disinterest or apathy towards regular or average people. It showcases a sense of superiority or indifference, highlighting the character's unique qualities or unconventional nature.
    • Origin: The phrase has been used in various anime series and is not associated with a single creator.
    • Meaning: Expressing a lack of interest towards normal or mundane individuals, emphasizing the character's distinctiveness.
    • Usage: Commonly employed by characters with special abilities, unique traits, or those who are aloof and detached from societal norms.
    • Popularity: Widely recognized and referenced within the anime and otaku community.
    • Variations: Different versions of the phrase exist, such as 'I'm not interested in regular people' or 'I have no interest in average humans.'

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Ranking factors for popular anime phrase

  1. Frequency of use
    A popular anime phrase will be commonly used and repeated across various anime series, as well as by fans in real life conversations and online discussions.
  2. Cultural significance
    The phrase should have a strong impact on the anime community and be recognized by a wide range of fans and non-fans alike.
  3. Emotional resonance
    Popular anime phrases often evoke strong emotions or memories from the series they are taken from, making them easily memorable and relatable.
  4. Character association
    If a specific character is strongly associated with a phrase, it can further enhance its popularity, as fans will associate the quote with their favorite characters.
  5. Catchiness and simplicity
    A popular anime phrase will typically be catchy, easy to remember, and easy to pronounce for both Japanese and non-Japanese speakers.
  6. Meme potential
    In the age of the internet, phrases that can easily be turned into memes or used in various social media contexts will have a higher popularity factor.
  7. Influence on the anime industry
    Some popular phrases may inspire other anime series to reference or use the same phrase, creating a ripple effect throughout the industry.
  8. Transcultural appeal
    Anime phrases that are popular not only in Japan but also among international fans will have a wider reach and impact.
  9. Adaptability for merchandise
    Popular anime phrases can also find their way into merchandise, including t-shirts, posters, and keychains, which can contribute to their popularity.
  10. Timelessness
    A truly popular anime phrase should be able to stand the test of time and remain recognizable and memorable, even as newer anime series come and go.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular anime phrase. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or phrase is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 1757 views
  • 182 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each phrase once every 24 hours. The rank of each phrase is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most popular anime phrase

Anime has been a popular form of entertainment for decades, with fans around the world tuning in to watch their favorite shows. One aspect of anime that stands out is the use of unique phrases and catchphrases that have become iconic among fans. These phrases are often repeated by fans, and have even become a part of popular culture outside of the anime community. From the classic "Believe it!" from Naruto to the more recent "Plus Ultra!" from My Hero Academia, anime phrases have a way of sticking with viewers long after the show has ended. But which anime phrase is the most popular? StrawPoll is here to find out!

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