Translation guide
The English word "breast" can refer to the anatomical chest area, the female mammary glands, or the front part of a bird. In Japanese, different words are used depending on the context, and some terms carry specific nuances of formality, politeness, or clinical tone.
Referring to the female breast, especially in everyday or polite conversation.
General word for chest or breast. In context, it can refer to the female breast, but it is ambiguous and can also mean the chest area in general. Polite and commonly used.
She put her hand on her breast.
Colloquial and somewhat childish word for breasts. Often used by children or in casual, intimate settings. Can be considered vulgar in formal contexts.
The baby is drinking milk from the breast.
Anatomical term for the female breast. Used in medical or formal contexts. Can sound clinical.
If you notice a lump in your breast, please consult a doctor.
Loanword from English, used mainly in fashion, beauty, or when discussing breast size. Not used in everyday conversation about the body.
Measure one's bust size.
Referring to the front part of the human torso, not specifically female breasts.
The most common word for chest. Can refer to the entire chest area, including the pectoral region, for both men and women.
Train the chest muscles.
My chest hurts.
Medical or anatomical term for the thoracic region. Used in clinical contexts.
Referring to the breast meat of poultry or the front part of a bird's body.
Using 'breast' to mean the seat of emotions, heart, or inner feelings.
Used metaphorically to refer to the heart or emotions, similar to English. Common in expressions like 胸が一杯になる (to be full of emotion).
My breast swelled with emotion upon hearing that story.
Literary term meaning 'in one's heart' or 'bosom'. Used in formal writing.
When referring to a woman's breasts in polite conversation, using おっぱい can be too casual or even vulgar. Stick to 胸 unless you are in a very informal setting. In medical contexts, 乳房 is appropriate.
胸 (むね) is the safest and most versatile word for chest or breast. 乳房 (ちぶさ) is clinical and specific to the female mammary gland. おっぱい is childish or slangy and should be used with caution.
胸部X線写真を撮る。
Take a chest X-ray.
その鳥は胸が赤い。
That bird has a red breast.
胸中を察する。
Understand what is in someone's breast (heart).