Translation guide
How to refer to the Burmese language, people, or things from Myanmar in Japanese.
Referring to the language spoken in Myanmar.
Referring to people from Myanmar.
Standard term for a Burmese person. Use with care as some may prefer 'ミャンマー人'.
彼女はビルマ人です。
She is Burmese.
Increasingly common, especially in formal or diplomatic contexts.
Describing something as being from or related to Myanmar.
Use the country name + の to form the adjective. 'ビルマ' is still widely used for cultural items.
ビルマの料理はおいしいです。
Burmese food is delicious.
Modern alternative, especially for official names.
Both are used in Japanese. 'ビルマ' is the older name and still common in everyday language, especially for the language and food. 'ミャンマー' is the official name and preferred in formal contexts. When in doubt, 'ミャンマー' is safer for referring to the country, but 'ビルマ語' remains standard for the language.
ビルマ語を話しますか？
Do you speak Burmese?
ミャンマーに行ったことがありますか？
Have you been to Myanmar?
He is studying Burmese.
Also used, reflecting the country's current name. Slightly less common than ビルマ語 but gaining acceptance.
ミャンマー語の先生を探しています。
I'm looking for a Burmese teacher.
ミャンマー人の友達がいます。
I have a Burmese friend.
ミャンマーの伝統衣装を見ました。
I saw traditional Burmese clothing.