Translation guide
Alopecia refers to hair loss, typically from the scalp. In Japanese, the most common and general term is 脱毛症 (datsumoushou), but the specific type and context determine the best word. For everyday conversation, simpler phrases like 髪が抜ける (kami ga nukeru) or 薄毛 (usuge) are more natural.
The clinical condition of losing hair, especially from the scalp, as a medical diagnosis.
The standard medical term for alopecia. It is a formal, clinical word used by doctors and in medical contexts.
He was diagnosed with alopecia.
A more general term for hair loss, often used in medical or cosmetic contexts. It can refer to the process or condition.
Describing hair falling out in casual conversation, not necessarily a medical diagnosis.
Literally 'hair falls out'. This is the most natural way to talk about hair loss in daily life.
The autoimmune condition causing patchy hair loss, often in round spots.
Common male or female pattern baldness, often age-related or genetic.
General term for baldness. Can be blunt or humorous depending on context. Use with care.
Can be considered rude if used directly about someone. Often used self-deprecatingly or in close relationships.
The English word 'alopecia' is medical. In casual Japanese, saying 脱毛症 may sound overly clinical. Use 髪が抜ける or 薄毛 instead.
禿げ (hage) is direct and can be insulting. 薄毛 (usuge) is softer and more polite. For self-description or close friends, 禿げ is acceptable, but for others, prefer 薄毛 or descriptive phrases.
脱毛の原因はストレスかもしれません。
The cause of hair loss might be stress.
Lately, my hair has been falling out a lot.
Means 'hair becomes thin', focusing on the visible result rather than the process of falling out.
My father's hair has thinned with age.
The precise medical term for alopecia areata. Commonly known and used in Japan.
Alopecia areata can develop suddenly.
Descriptive phrase meaning 'round hair loss', used in casual explanation.
I got a round bald spot on my head.
He's going bald even though he's young.
Literally 'thin hair'. A softer, more polite way to refer to balding or thinning hair.
Many men suffer from thinning hair.
Medical term for male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia). Used in clinical settings.
There are medications for male pattern baldness.