What’s the Difference Between Cartoon and Anime?

difference between cartoon and anime

Japanese animation, or anime, was first introduced in 1960. However, there is debate as to whether or not Anime should be considered a cartoon. Most westerners consider Anime to be another form of cartoon.

Nevertheless, Japan does not want anime to be considered as a form of cartoon. Japan is covered with Anime images, and they use Anime in everyday life. It is part of their culture. Anime is used in Japanese education, marketing strategies, magazines, movies, and books.

what's the difference between cartoon and anime?

So, what’s the difference between cartoon and anime?

Anime (Japanese: アニメ?, [a.ni.me] are Japanese animated productions and come in all formats, such as television series (such as Dragon Ball and Inuyasha, animated short films, and full-length feature films.)

Advertisement

A cartoon is a form of two-dimensional illustrated visual art. While the specific definition has changed over time, modern usage refers to a typically non-realistic or semi-realistic drawing or painting intended for satire, caricature, or humor.

No matter how you look at it, an anime is a cartoon. The main difference is that anime is considered a Japanese style of cartoons in the West.

Many English-language dictionaries define anime as “a Japanese style of motion-picture animation” or as “a style of animation developed in Japan.”

However, in Japan, the term “anime” does not specify an animation’s nation of origin or style. Instead, it serves as a blanket term to refer to all forms of animation from around the world (both foreign and domestic).

Advertisement

The word “anime” is a loan word referring to “animation” or “cartoons,” adapted from the English word “animation.” So, Pokemon is both, no matter if it is designed for kids or what.

difference between cartoon and anime

Or, the TL, DR (the too long, didn’t read version) the difference is mostly a matter of opinion and location. Most of us will agree that Pokemon and Sailor Moon cover both but other shows will fall under just one category.


What do you think the difference between cartoons and anime is? Let me know in the comments below!

As always,

Advertisement

Keep Smiling!

thenerdygirlnews
thenerdygirlnews

Spends her time watching anime and reading anything she can get her hands on. Also passionate about Disney, Harry Potter and helping those with depression and anxiety.

Articles: 151
Subscribe
Notify of
guest
14 Comments
Newest
Oldest
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments