Translation guide
The English word "auto" is most commonly short for "automobile" (a car). It can also appear in compound words like "auto repair" or as a prefix meaning "self" (e.g., "automatic"). This guide focuses on how to express these concepts naturally in Japanese.
Referring to a car or motor vehicle in general.
The most common and natural word for 'car' in Japanese. Used in everyday conversation.
A more formal or technical term for 'automobile'. Often used in official contexts, signs, or industry.
The automobile industry is an important industry in Japan.
Wasei-eigo (Japanese-made English) meaning 'one's own car' or 'private car'. Used when emphasizing personal ownership.
I commute by my own car.
Referring to car repair or a place that fixes cars.
Standard term for 'automobile repair'. Used in business names and general contexts.
I work in auto repair.
More casual way to say 'car repair'. Literally 'repair of car'.
How much did the car repair cost?
Repair shop/garage. Often used for auto repair shops.
That auto repair shop has a good reputation.
Expressing that something operates by itself, as in 'automatic'.
Prefix meaning 'automatic'. Used in many compound words like 自動ドア (automatic door), 自動販売機 (vending machine).
This door is automatic.
Loanword from English 'auto', often used in compound words or as a prefix, e.g., オートロック (auto-lock), オートバイ (motorcycle).
The loanword オート is not used to mean 'automobile' in Japanese. Always use 車 or 自動車 for a car.
It updates automatically.
このマンションはオートロックです。
This apartment has an auto-lock system.