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‑] / ˈmɑŋ gə, ˈmæŋ‑ /

noun

a Japanese graphic novel, typically intended for adults, characterized by highly stylized art.

anime

[an-uh-mey] / ˈæn əˌmeɪ /

noun

Graphic Arts.

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.