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is study explores wordplay in the works of CLAMP, a popular Japanese mangaka (comic artist) group. Specically, it examines CLAMP's use of ateji, the pairing of kanji (Chinese characters) and furigana (a reading gloss) with dierent meanings. is allows two dierent words to become one, cre- ating meanings that transcend words' literal denitions. Original research on ateji in six dierent manga zasshi (comic magazines) and three of CLAMP's works-Cardcaptor Sakura, Tsubasa: RESERVoir CHRoNiCLE, and Clover-identies ve distinct ateji techniques. is study focuses on the way these techniques are employed by CLAMP to express complex ideas, develop plot, and portray characters. As a technique embedded within the Japanese language, the implications of ateji use in manga extend beyond the medium of comics, pointing to shifting trends in the language as a whole.