Translation guide
The most common Japanese word for beer is ビール. In casual settings, you can also use 生 for draft beer. Ordering beer is straightforward, but knowing a few related terms will help you sound natural.
beer
Referring to beer in general, ordering beer, or talking about beer as a beverage.
The standard word for beer. Used in all contexts, from casual to formal.
A beer, please.
I want to drink a cold beer.
Draft beer. Often shortened to 生 in casual settings.
Do you have draft beer?
Short for 生ビール. Very common in izakaya and casual restaurants.
I'll start with a draft beer!
Specifying a type of beer, such as lager, ale, or craft beer.
Local or craft beer. Often used for microbrews from a specific region.
This local beer is very delicious.
Craft beer. A more modern term, often used for artisanal or imported craft beers.
Dark beer or stout. Literally 'black beer'.
Phrases for ordering beer, specifying size, or asking about availability.
Standard way to order a beer. Can be made more polite by adding お願いします.
A beer, please.
A common phrase meaning 'I'll start with a beer.' Often used when sitting down at an izakaya.
I'll have a beer for now.
Large bottle of beer (usually 633ml). Sometimes used when ordering bottled beer.
In casual settings, you can simply say 生 (nama) for draft beer. It's very common and sounds natural.
Draft beer, please.
I've been into craft beer lately.
Dark beer has a strong bitterness.
大瓶でお願いします。
A large bottle, please.