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.
自動車産業は日本の重要な産業です。
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.
マイカー通勤をしています。
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.
自動車修理の仕事をしています。
I work in auto repair.
More casual way to say 'car repair'. Literally 'repair of car'.
車の修理にいくらかかりましたか？
How much did the car repair cost?
Repair shop/garage. Often used for auto repair shops.
あの修理工場は評判がいい。
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).
このドアは自動です。
This door is automatic.
自動で更新されます。
It updates automatically.
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.
This apartment has an auto-lock system.