Japanese - Ask questions thread

Basically if you have a question about the language, ask it and fellow 4channers might see it and answer it for you.

To start it off. When an animate object (iru) dies, is it considered inanimate(aru)?

What's the difference between Nihon and Nippon? I don't think you can say nippongo but I think I've heard nipponjin, of course it all works for nihon.

If I were to guess, I'd say nippon is more of a older fashion way that is a bit more proud, where as nihon is more.. passive I guess.

Anyone care to elaborate?