Translation guide
The country China is most commonly referred to as 中国 (Chūgoku) in Japanese. This guide covers how to say 'China' in various contexts, including formal, historical, and culinary uses.
China (country)
Referring to the modern nation of China in general conversation.
The standard, neutral word for China. Used in almost all contexts.
Have you ever been to China?
China's population is large.
The official full name: People's Republic of China. Used in formal, political, or news contexts.
The People's Republic of China was established in 1949.
Referring to China in a historical, traditional, or cultural sense, often distinct from the modern nation-state.
Still the most common word, but context makes it clear you mean historical/cultural China.
China has a long history.
Often used in compounds to refer to Chinese civilization or culture, e.g., 中華料理 (Chinese cuisine), 中華思想 (Sinocentrism). Can sound somewhat literary or formal.
Historical term for China, now considered derogatory and offensive. Avoid using. Included only for recognition in historical texts.
This term is offensive. Do not use it to refer to China or Chinese people.
When 'China' appears as part of a compound word or phrase, such as 'China Sea' or 'China town'.
Most compounds use 中国 (Chūgoku) as the prefix.
I am studying Chinese (language).
Chinese tea comes in many varieties.
Used in many culinary and cultural compounds, e.g., 中華街 (Chinatown), 中華鍋 (Chinese wok).
Let's go to Yokohama Chinatown.
Indicating that something is made in China or comes from China.
The term 支那 was historically used for China but is now considered a racial slur. Never use it in modern Japanese. Stick to 中国.
中華料理が好きです。
I like Chinese food.
この古い地図には「支那」と書いてある。
This old map says 'Shina'.