Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of 'bath' is deeply tied to the culture of soaking in a bathtub (often for relaxation), rather than just washing. The most common word is お風呂 (ofuro), which refers to both the bathwater and the bathtub, and by extension the act of bathing. There are also specific terms for public baths, hot springs, and the bathing room itself.
I'm going to take a bath.
The bath is ready.
The most common way to refer to a bath in a home setting, focusing on the act of soaking in hot water for relaxation or cleanliness.
The standard word for 'bath' in Japanese. It refers to the bathtub, the bathwater, or the act of taking a bath. The honorific prefix お makes it polite and natural in daily conversation.
I take a bath.
Same as お風呂 but without the honorific prefix. Slightly more casual or blunt; often used by men or in compounds.
A formal or written term for 'bathing' or 'taking a bath'. Often used in instructions, signs, or medical contexts.
Referring to the physical room where the bathtub is located, often separate from the toilet in Japanese homes.
A communal bathhouse where people pay to use large bathing facilities, a traditional part of Japanese culture.
A bath using natural hot spring water, often at a resort or inn, highly valued for relaxation and health.
Focusing on the process of bathing someone else, such as a child or pet.
Literally 'to put into the bath', the standard way to say 'to give (someone) a bath'.
Referring specifically to the physical tub itself, not the room or the act.
In English, 'bathroom' often means a room with a toilet. In Japanese, トイレ (toilet) and 浴室/お風呂 (bath) are separate concepts. Asking for the 'bathroom' when you need a toilet may cause confusion.
Where is the restroom?
In Japan, you wash your body outside the tub before entering the bathwater. The bathwater is for soaking, not for cleaning. This is important when using public baths or hot springs.
The bath is ready (the water has been heated).
I clean the bath.
入浴は食後1時間ほど経ってからにしましょう。
Let's bathe about an hour after eating.
The standard word for 'bathroom' as a room with a bathtub/shower. Not used for a toilet-only room.
Please close the bathroom door.
Loanword from English, often used in real estate or hotel contexts for a Western-style bathroom with a bathtub and toilet together.
This room comes with a spacious bathroom.
Literally 'bath place', a common casual term for the bathing area, often used in daily speech.
Be careful not to slip in the bath.
A traditional public bathhouse, often with a distinctive architectural style. Still found in many neighborhoods.
I look forward to going to the local sento on weekends.
A formal term for 'public bathhouse', often used in legal or administrative contexts.
There are several public bathhouses in this area.
Refers to both the hot spring itself and the bathing facilities using its water. A major part of Japanese leisure travel.
I want to soak in a hot spring and relieve my fatigue.
I give the baby a bath.
The technical term for 'bathtub'. Used in product descriptions, architecture, or when distinguishing from the room.
This bathtub retains heat well.
Loanword from English, commonly used in casual contexts or for Western-style tubs.
I bought a new bathtub.