Translation guide
In Japanese, 'Mac' almost always refers to Apple's Macintosh computer. It is a loanword written in katakana. Context usually makes the meaning clear, but when needed, specify マック (Mac) or マッキントッシュ (Macintosh).
Referring to an Apple Mac computer
The most common and casual way to say 'Mac' in Japanese. Used in everyday conversation.
I bought a new Mac.
I'm editing videos on my Mac.
The full name 'Macintosh', used in formal or technical contexts, or to avoid confusion with McDonald's.
The Macintosh was released in 1984.
Sometimes written in English letters, especially in logos or branding, but pronounced as マック.
The Mac logo is cool.
Referring to the fast-food chain McDonald's
In casual Japanese, マック is a common abbreviation for McDonald's. Note: In the Kansai region, マクド is more common.
Let's go to McDonald's for lunch today.
I want to eat McDonald's fries.
The Kansai-region abbreviation for McDonald's. Using it outside Kansai may sound odd.
The full name, used in formal contexts or when clarity is needed.
Referring to the type of apple
The apple variety is also called マッキントッシュ, but it is not widely known in Japan. Usually, specifying 'りんごの品種' (apple variety) helps.
The apple variety called McIntosh is tart.
Referring to a mackintosh raincoat
The generic term for raincoat. 'Mac' in the sense of a raincoat is not used in Japanese; use レインコート instead.
It looks like rain, so I'll take a raincoat.
If you need to specify the traditional rubberized cloth coat, describe it as 'ゴム引きのコート' or 'マッキントッシュコート', but this is very rare.
He was wearing an old mackintosh.
When talking about computers, context usually makes it clear whether you mean Apple Mac or McDonald's. If there's any ambiguity, use マッキントッシュ for the computer or マクドナルド for the restaurant.
I want a Mac. / I want McDonald's.
In most of Japan, McDonald's is abbreviated as マック. In the Kansai region (Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe), it's マクド. Using the wrong one might mark you as an outsider.
Let's have coffee at McDonald's.
I'm curious about McDonald's new menu.