Manga vs. Mangaka — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Maham Liaqat — Updated on April 20, 2024
Manga refers to Japanese comic books or graphic novels, while mangaka is the term for the artist who creates manga.
Difference Between Manga and Mangaka
Table of Contents
ADVERTISEMENT
Key Differences
Manga is a genre of literature in Japan, known for its unique storytelling and artistic styles, often serialized in magazines. Whereas, mangaka refers specifically to the individual artist or writer responsible for creating a manga, encompassing both the story and illustrations.
Manga can cover a wide range of genres and target diverse audiences, from children to adults. On the other hand, mangaka often specialize in specific types of manga, such as shonen, shojo, seinen, or josei, each targeting different demographics.
The success of a manga is often measured by its popularity, sales, and adaptations into other media such as anime and films. While, the reputation of a mangaka is typically gauged by their artistic skill, narrative creativity, and the consistent quality and popularity of their works.
Manga is read by millions worldwide and has a significant influence on global pop culture. Whereas, mangaka are celebrated within the manga community and may achieve international fame if their works are particularly successful and globally recognized.
The production of manga involves various stages including plotting, sketching, and publishing, which are typically the responsibility of the mangaka, often with the help of assistants for larger projects.
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparison Chart
Definition
Japanese comic books or graphic novels.
The artist or writer who creates manga.
Focus
Storytelling and artistic style.
Individual responsible for creating the story and art.
Measurement of Success
Popularity, sales, adaptations.
Artistic skill, narrative creativity, popularity.
Target Audience
Diverse, including children, teens, and adults.
Works target specific demographics of manga readers.
Cultural Impact
Significant influence on global pop culture.
Celebrated primarily within the manga community.
Compare with Definitions
Manga
Serialized graphic stories.
His favorite manga is published monthly in a popular magazine.
Mangaka
Gains reputation through distinctive style and storytelling.
He is a well-known mangaka famous for his intricate plots.
Manga
Often adapted into anime and movies.
That popular anime began as a manga series.
Mangaka
Integral to the manga creation process.
A mangaka’s daily life involves scripting, sketching, and editing.
Manga
A style of Japanese comic book or graphic novel.
She has an extensive collection of manga ranging from horror to romance.
Mangaka
A creator of manga, handling both writing and illustrations.
The mangaka spent years perfecting his drawing technique.
Manga
A medium for storytelling through sequential art.
Manga often conveys deeper themes through its detailed artwork.
Mangaka
Often works with assistants on larger projects.
She employs two assistants to help with inking and backgrounds.
Manga
A cultural phenomenon in and outside Japan.
Manga festivals attract thousands of fans worldwide.
Mangaka
May achieve fame if their manga is adapted into other media.
After her manga was turned into a movie, the mangaka became a celebrity.
Manga
Manga (Japanese: 漫画 [maŋga]) are comics or graphic novels originating from Japan. Most manga conform to a style developed in Japan in the late 19th century, and the form has a long prehistory in earlier Japanese art.
Mangaka
Mangaka (漫画家) is the Japanese word for a comic artist. Outside Japan, manga usually refers to a Japanese comic book and mangaka refers to the author of the manga, who is usually Japanese.
Manga
A style of Japanese comic books and graphic novels, typically aimed at adults as well as children
Takahashi is an artist who truly represents the very best from the world of manga
Mangaka
A professional manga or anime artist.
Manga
A style of comic strip or comic book originally developed in Japan, characterized by stylized colorful art and often adult themes.
Manga
A comic originating in Japan.
Manga
(uncountable) An artistic style heavily used in, and associated with, Japanese comics, and that has also been adopted by a comparatively low number of comics from other countries.
Manga
A comic in manga style, regardless of the country of origin.
Lately I've been reading a Brazilian manga.
Manga
(Christianity) A covering for a crucifix.
Common Curiosities
Can manga be created by non-Japanese artists?
Yes, although traditionally Japanese, manga-style comics are now created worldwide.
How do mangaka get their manga published?
Mangaka either pitch their work to publishers or get scouted based on their self-published works or recognition.
Who is a mangaka?
A mangaka is an artist or writer who creates manga.
How do manga and anime differ?
Manga is a printed or digital comic, while anime is its animated version, often with voice and music.
What is manga?
Manga are Japanese comics known for their unique styles and broad appeal across various genres.
What skills are essential for a mangaka?
Artistic talent, storytelling ability, and dedication are crucial for a mangaka.
What makes manga popular internationally?
Its compelling storytelling and unique art style appeal to a diverse global audience.
What is the cultural significance of manga in Japan?
Manga is a major part of Japanese culture, reflecting societal themes and influencing various art forms.
What are the different genres of manga?
Manga genres include shonen (for young boys), shojo (for young girls), seinen (for adult men), and josei (for adult women).
Are all mangaka from Japan?
While most are Japanese, the term can apply to any artist worldwide who creates manga-style comics.
What impact do mangaka have on the anime industry?
Many anime are based on manga, so mangaka indirectly shape much of the anime industry through their original comics.
How does a mangaka work?
A mangaka typically works on scripting, panel layout, and illustration, sometimes with the help of assistants.
What is the process of creating a manga?
It involves concept development, character design, drafting, and final inking.
Can mangaka become celebrities?
Yes, successful mangaka can become celebrities, especially if their works are widely acclaimed.
How often are manga published?
Manga can be serialized weekly, monthly, or published as standalone volumes.
Share Your Discovery
Previous Comparison
Dirt vs. Mud
Next Comparison
Hinduism vs. JainismAuthor Spotlight
Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
