Translation guide
The English word "beard" refers to facial hair on the chin and cheeks. In Japanese, the most common general term is ひげ, but this word can also mean mustache or whiskers. Context usually clarifies the specific type.
Referring to hair growing on the chin and lower face, as opposed to a mustache.
Specifically means 'chin beard'. This is the most precise term when you want to distinguish a beard from a mustache.
彼はあごひげを生やしている。
He has a beard.
あごひげを剃る。
I shave my beard.
General term for facial hair, including beard, mustache, and whiskers. Often used when the type is clear from context.
ひげを伸ばしている。
He's growing a beard.
ひげが濃い。
He has a thick beard.
Kanji form of あごひげ, used in formal or literary contexts.
老人は長い顎鬚を蓄えていた。
The old man had a long beard.
When the distinction between beard and mustache is not important, or when referring to facial hair as a whole.
The default word for any facial hair. Use this unless you need to specify beard vs. mustache.
ひげを剃らなければならない。
I have to shave my beard/mustache.
彼はひげが似合う。
A beard suits him.
Describing a beard that is intentionally grown and maintained as part of one's appearance.
Can be used with adjectives like おしゃれな (stylish) or 手入れの行き届いた (well-groomed).
彼はおしゃれなひげを生やしている。
He sports a stylish beard.
Specifically a chin beard, often associated with a fashionable look.
Referring to the beard as a symbol of manliness, age, or wisdom.
Often used in set phrases like ひげを生やす (to grow a beard) implying a rite of passage or masculine image.
ひげを生やすと男らしく見える。
Growing a beard makes you look manly.
ひげ is the general term for facial hair and can refer to a beard, mustache, or even animal whiskers. あごひげ specifically means 'chin beard'. Use あごひげ when you need to be clear that you're talking about a beard and not a mustache.
If you want to say 'mustache', use 口ひげ (くちひげ). Saying just ひげ could be ambiguous.
I trim my beard.