ManabiDojo

Product Introduction

1. ManabiDojo is a Chrome extension designed to facilitate Japanese language learning by integrating interactive subtitles into popular streaming platforms like Crunchyroll. It combines real-time dictionary lookups, AI-powered sentence analysis, and customizable flashcard systems to create an immersive learning environment directly within entertainment content.
2. The core value of ManabiDojo lies in its ability to transform passive anime-watching sessions into active language-learning opportunities through precise word parsing, contextual translations, and adaptive tools that bridge entertainment and education.

Main Features

1. ManabiDojo provides interactive Japanese subtitles with clickable word parsing, enabling users to view dictionary definitions (from Jisho and Jotoba), kanji breakdowns, and AI-generated explanations for complex phrases. Subtitles are automatically synchronized with video playback and can be manually adjusted for timing accuracy.
2. The extension includes an AI-powered analysis tool that deconstructs challenging sentence structures or idiomatic expressions, offering grammatical explanations and contextual usage notes. This feature leverages natural language processing to simplify advanced linguistic concepts.
3. Users can save vocabulary and phrases as flashcards directly from subtitles, with options to review difficult words before or after watching. The system supports spaced repetition and exports data for external study, integrating with existing learning workflows.

Problems Solved

1. ManabiDojo addresses the disconnect between traditional language-learning tools and immersive media consumption by embedding study features directly into entertainment platforms. It eliminates the need to switch between dictionaries, flashcards, and video players during anime viewing.
2. The product targets intermediate to advanced Japanese learners who consume anime regularly but struggle to efficiently parse natural speech, retain vocabulary, or understand context-specific grammar.
3. Typical use cases include deciphering fast-paced dialogue in anime, building vocabulary through repeated exposure to high-frequency terms, and practicing kanji recognition in audiovisual contexts without interrupting viewing sessions.

Unique Advantages

1. Unlike generic subtitle tools (e.g., Yomitan Popup Dictionary), ManabiDojo specializes in streaming platform integration, offering frame-accurate subtitle synchronization and platform-specific UI optimizations for Crunchyroll and similar services.
2. The dual-tab word popup combines Ichiran/Ichimoe morphological analysis with CaboCha dependency parsing, providing both dictionary definitions and syntactic relationships within sentences—a feature absent in competitors like Rikaichamp.
3. Competitive advantages include proprietary AI models trained on anime-specific linguistics, multi-source dictionary aggregation (Jotoba + Jisho), and native support for user-uploaded subtitle files in ASS/SSA formats for custom content.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Which streaming platforms does ManabiDojo support? ManabiDojo currently integrates natively with Crunchyroll and supports any HTML5 video platform through manual subtitle uploads in ASS/SSA formats. Netflix and Amazon Prime compatibility requires additional browser extensions for subtitle injection.
2. How does subtitle synchronization work? Users can adjust subtitle timing via ±500ms increments using hotkeys (Ctrl+Shift+Arrow Keys) or a graphical offset slider. The system automatically detects scene changes to maintain alignment during playback.
3. Are saved flashcards compatible with Anki? Flashcards export as CSV files with furigana, pitch accent notation, and example sentences, allowing direct import into Anki or other SRS platforms. In-app reviews include audio playback from source videos.
4. Does the AI explanation feature require an API key? The AI analyzer uses a proprietary model hosted by ManabiDojo, requiring no external API setup. Users receive 50 free queries/month, with premium subscriptions offering unlimited access.
5. What Japanese proficiency level is required? The tool supports JLPT N5-N1 levels, with configurable furigana display and a built-in grammar reference database. Beginners can activate romaji transliterations in settings.