Translation guide
A berth can refer to a sleeping place on a ship or train, a space for a ship to dock, or a position in a competition or job. This guide covers the most common ways to express these meanings in Japanese.
A bed or bunk in a cabin or compartment, especially on a ship or train.
General term for a sleeping berth or bunk on a train or ship. Commonly used in travel contexts.
寝台列車で旅行するのが好きです。
I like traveling by sleeper train.
船の寝台は思ったより快適だった。
The berth on the ship was more comfortable than I expected.
Loanword from English, used in contexts like cruise ships or modern travel. Less common than 寝台.
クルーズ船のバースを予約しました。
I booked a berth on the cruise ship.
Literally 'sleeping place', can refer to any bed or sleeping spot, including a berth. More casual and general.
列車の中で寝床を確保した。
I secured a sleeping spot on the train.
A designated place where a ship can moor or dock in a harbor.
Standard term for a berth or anchorage for ships. Used in maritime contexts.
港に新しい停泊所が建設された。
A new berth was constructed at the port.
Also used for a ship's berth, especially in international shipping or modern contexts.
貨物船がバースに接岸した。
The cargo ship docked at the berth.
More general term for a mooring place, not exclusively a berth. Used for smaller vessels or yachts.
ヨットの係留場所を探している。
I'm looking for a berth for my yacht.
A place or slot in a tournament, league, or employment context.
Refers to a spot or berth in a competition, tournament, or event. Commonly used in sports.
彼はオリンピックの出場枠を獲得した。
He secured a berth in the Olympics.
Loanword for 'position', can be used for a job berth or role. More general.
新しいポジションをオファーされた。
I was offered a new berth (position).
Literally 'seat', can metaphorically mean a berth in a limited opportunity, like a university slot.
Often used with 枠 (わく) to mean 'slot' or 'quota'.
大学の入学枠を確保した。
I secured a berth at the university.