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manga vs. anime

manga vs. anime: What’s the difference?

Manga and anime both often use similar distinctive illustration styles, but the word manga specifically refers to Japanese-style graphic novels (book-length comic books), while anime refers to the genre of Japanese-style 2D animation. In other words, manga are books, while anime consists of shows and movies. The word manga can be both singular and plural.

manga

[ mahng-guh, mang‐ ]
noun
  1. a Japanese graphic novel, typically intended for adults, characterized by highly stylized art.

anime

[ an-uh-mey ]
noun
  1. a genre of film and television animation created in or influenced by the traditional style of Japanese 2D animation and characterized by highly stylized, colorful art, fantastic settings, and mature themes.