Translation guide
In Japanese, the general term for blood vessel is 血管 (けっかん). More specific terms exist for arteries, veins, and capillaries, but 血管 is the most common and versatile word for everyday use.
Referring to any tubular structure carrying blood in the body, in general or non-specialist contexts.
The standard, neutral term for blood vessel. Used in medical and everyday contexts.
My blood vessels are thin, so injections are difficult.
Blood vessels are spread throughout the body.
Specifically referring to a blood vessel that carries blood away from the heart.
The standard term for artery. Used in medical and anatomical contexts.
Arteries carry blood from the heart.
Specifically referring to a blood vessel that carries blood toward the heart.
The standard term for vein. Used in medical and anatomical contexts.
Veins return blood to the heart.
Referring to the smallest blood vessels where exchange of substances occurs.
The standard term for capillary. Literally 'fine hair blood vessel'.
Capillaries are very thin.