Translation guide
How to express instant messaging (IM) in Japanese, including the platform, the act of messaging, and related terms.
メッセージを送って。
Send me an IM.
Referring to the app or service itself, like 'I use IM to chat with friends.'
The direct loanword for 'instant messenger'. Commonly understood, especially among younger people.
インスタントメッセンジャーで友達と話す。
I talk with friends on instant messenger.
The English abbreviation 'IM' is sometimes used in Japanese, pronounced as 'ai-emu'. More common in tech contexts.
IMで送ってください。
Please send it via IM.
Means 'chat app'. A more general term that includes instant messengers like LINE, WhatsApp, etc.
どのチャットアプリを使っていますか？
Which chat app do you use?
Means 'messaging app'. Similar to チャットアプリ, but emphasizes text messaging.
新しいメッセージアプリをダウンロードした。
I downloaded a new messaging app.
Describing the action, like 'I'll IM you later.'
The most natural way to say 'send a message'. Works for any messaging platform.
後でメッセージを送るね。
I'll send you a message later.
Means 'to chat'. Implies a back-and-forth conversation via text.
今夜チャットしよう。
Let's chat tonight.
Means 'to DM (direct message)'. Common on social media platforms like Twitter or Instagram.
質問があったらDMして。
DM me if you have questions.
Means 'to message on LINE'. LINE is the most popular messenger in Japan, so this verb is very common but platform-specific.
明日ラインするね。
I'll LINE you tomorrow.
Referring to a single message, like 'I got your IM.'
The standard word for a text message.
あなたのメッセージを読んだ。
I read your message.
Short for 'direct message'. Used as a noun.
DMをチェックして。
Check your DMs.
Can refer to a chat message or the conversation itself.
そのチャットは面白かった。
That chat was interesting.
In casual conversation, Japanese speakers often use verbs derived from specific app names, like ラインする (to message on LINE) or ツイッターでDMする (to DM on Twitter). This is natural but only works if both people use the same platform.
There is no direct verb 'to IM' in Japanese. Use メッセージを送る or チャットする instead. Saying アイエムする is not standard.