Translation guide
In Japanese, the word for boots is ブーツ (būtsu), a loanword from English. However, there are also traditional Japanese words for specific types of boots, and the usage can vary depending on context. This guide covers the most common ways to refer to boots in Japanese.
ブーツ
boots
The most common, all-purpose word for boots, especially Western-style boots.
The standard loanword for 'boots'. Used for most types of boots, from fashion boots to snow boots.
新しいブーツを買った。
I bought new boots.
このブーツはとても暖かい。
These boots are very warm.
Literally 'long shoes', this refers to rubber boots or rain boots. Often used for practical, waterproof boots.
雨の日は長靴を履きます。
I wear rain boots on rainy days.
When you need to specify a particular kind of boot, Japanese often uses compound words or descriptive phrases.
Leather shoes/boots. Can refer to leather boots, but is a broader term for leather footwear.
革靴を磨く。
I polish my leather shoes/boots.
Ankle boots or booties. A more recent loanword used in fashion contexts.
このブーティは履きやすい。
These booties are easy to wear.
The verb 履く (はく) is used for putting on footwear that covers the feet and ankles, including boots, shoes, and socks. Do not use 着る (きる) which is for clothing on the upper body.
ブーツを履く。
To put on boots.