Translation guide
The English word 'battery' covers several distinct concepts in Japanese. The most common meaning is a small power source for devices, which is 電池 (denchi). For larger rechargeable batteries like car batteries, use バッテリー (batterī). In legal contexts, 'assault and battery' is 暴行 (bōkō). Other meanings like a set of similar things or artillery unit are less common and have specific translations.
A device that produces electricity to power small electronics like remote controls, toys, or flashlights.
I need to change the batteries in the TV remote. · The battery is dead. · Do you have spare batteries?
The general term for a battery (dry cell, alkaline, etc.). Used for small, often disposable batteries.
The remote control battery died.
Often used for rechargeable batteries in devices like smartphones, laptops, and cameras. Can also refer to larger batteries like car batteries.
While バッテリー is common for built-in rechargeable batteries, 電池 is still widely understood and used for many small electronics.
A large, rechargeable battery used in vehicles or for power storage.
The crime of physically attacking someone.
The legal term for battery (physical assault). Often used in the phrase 'assault and battery'.
A group or series of similar things used together.
A military unit equipped with artillery.
The specific military term for an artillery battery.
電池 (denchi) typically refers to small, often disposable batteries like AA or AAA cells. バッテリー (batterī) is used for larger, rechargeable batteries such as car batteries or built-in batteries in electronics. However, for rechargeable AA batteries, 充電池 (jūdenchi) is common. In casual conversation, バッテリー is increasingly used for smartphone batteries, but 電池 is still correct and widely understood.
The battery in my watch needs replacing.
Please buy some AA batteries.
My smartphone battery runs out quickly.
The standard term for a car battery or any large rechargeable battery.
The car battery died.
I need to charge the battery.
Technical term for a storage battery or accumulator. Used in industrial or energy contexts.
We installed a storage battery for the solar power system.
He was arrested for assault and battery.
Means a complete set or suite. Used for a battery of tests or a set of equipment.
一式 is not a direct translation of 'battery' but conveys the idea of a set. For 'a battery of tests', 一連の検査 is more natural.
I underwent a battery of tests.
Means 'a series of' or 'a battery of'. Used with nouns like 検査 (tests) or 質問 (questions).
I was asked a battery of questions in the interview.
The artillery battery took up position.
In baseball, 'battery' refers to the pitcher and catcher pair. This is a specialized sports term.
This team's battery (pitcher and catcher) is excellent.
car battery
Using バッテリー for a small dry cell battery (like a AA) can sound unnatural. Stick to 電池 for those.
He was charged with battery.