Translation guide
A genetic condition resulting in little or no melanin production, affecting skin, hair, and eyes. In Japanese, the most common term is 白皮症 (はくひしょう), but other terms exist depending on context.
To refer to the condition of albinism in humans or animals in a general or medical context.
The standard medical term for albinism, literally 'white skin condition'. Used for both humans and animals.
彼は白皮症です。
He has albinism.
白皮症の動物は目が赤いことが多い。
Animals with albinism often have red eyes.
More specific term meaning 'congenital albinism', emphasizing it is present from birth.
先天性白皮症は遺伝子の変異によって起こります。
Congenital albinism is caused by genetic mutations.
Loanword from English, used occasionally in scientific or international contexts, but less common than 白皮症.
アルビニズムの研究が進んでいる。
Research on albinism is advancing.
To describe or refer to a person who has albinism.
The most natural and respectful way to refer to a person with albinism. Literally 'person with albinism'.
白皮症の人は紫外線に特に注意が必要です。
People with albinism need to be especially careful about UV rays.
Loanword from English/Portuguese, commonly used in casual contexts. Can be used for both humans and animals, but may carry a slightly clinical or exotic nuance. Use with care.
While common, some may prefer person-first language like 白皮症の人. Avoid using in formal or sensitive contexts unless the individual self-identifies with it.
あのアルビノのモデルはとても有名だ。
That albino model is very famous.
Literally 'white child', an older term that can refer to a person or animal with albinism. Now considered dated and potentially insensitive when referring to people. Still used for animals, especially fish.
Avoid using for people unless in historical or very specific contexts; it can be derogatory.
To refer specifically to albinism in non-human organisms.
General term for 'whitening' or 'bleaching', used in biology for albinism in plants or animals, especially when referring to lack of chlorophyll or pigment.
この植物の白化は遺伝的なものだ。
The albinism in this plant is genetic.
Refers to a 'white variant' or 'albino strain', often used for animals bred to be white, like white tigers or albino snakes.
その動物園には白変種のトラがいる。
That zoo has a white variant tiger.
Commonly used for albino animals, especially fish and birds. Acceptable in this context.
The term 白子 (しらこ) is considered outdated and potentially offensive when referring to people. Stick with 白皮症の人 or アルビノ if the person self-identifies as such.
In Japanese, it's common and respectful to say 白皮症の人 (person with albinism) rather than labeling the person as アルビノ, similar to English preferences.
この金魚は白子です。
This goldfish is an albino.
Albino peacocks are rare.