Translation guide
LSD is a powerful hallucinogenic drug. In Japanese, it is most commonly referred to by the abbreviation エルエスディー (LSD) or the slang term エル (L). This guide covers how to talk about the substance, its effects, and related experiences in natural Japanese.
Referring to the substance itself, whether in casual conversation, news, or formal contexts.
The most direct and widely understood term. Used in both casual and formal contexts, often written in Latin script or katakana.
LSD is a powerful hallucinogen.
Common slang abbreviation for LSD, used in casual conversation. Derived from the letter 'L'.
I heard he did acid yesterday.
The full chemical name. Used only in scientific or very formal contexts.
Lysergic acid diethylamide was first synthesized in 1943.
Describing the act of consuming LSD, whether orally (most common) or otherwise.
The most common casual way to say 'do LSD'. やる is a versatile verb for doing drugs.
The first time I did LSD, the world looked different.
Slang for 'do acid', often implying a deliberate, intense experience. キメる is drug slang for getting high.
Formal term for 'ingest LSD', used in medical or legal contexts.
Referring to the psychedelic experience itself, often called a 'trip'.
Direct loanword for 'trip', widely used in drug culture.
Yesterday's trip was amazing.
More formal term meaning 'hallucinatory experience'. Can be used in non-drug contexts as well.
Loanword for 'bad trip', a negative or frightening psychedelic experience.
He panicked during a bad trip.
Referring to the common physical form of LSD: small squares of paper.
LSD is strictly illegal in Japan, and drug use carries severe social stigma. Be extremely cautious when discussing this topic, as even casual mention can have serious consequences. Avoid using drug slang in formal or public settings.
エル is casual slang, while LSD (エルエスディー) is more neutral and can be used in news or educational contexts. In writing, LSD is often kept in Latin letters, but katakana is also common.
I dropped acid and went to a club on the weekend.
After ingesting LSD, the subject reported hallucinations.
The hallucinatory experience from LSD varies greatly from person to person.
Put the tab under your tongue and let it dissolve.