Translation guide
The English word 'breed' can refer to a specific variety of domesticated animal, the act of animals reproducing, or the idea of raising or cultivating something. This guide covers the most common and useful Japanese expressions for each meaning.
Referring to a breed of dog, cat, horse, etc.
The standard word for 'breed' or 'variety' of animals or plants. Used in formal and technical contexts.
What breed is this dog?
I have a rare breed of cat.
Specifically means 'dog breed'. Common in pet-related contexts.
I saw a ranking of popular dog breeds.
Specifically means 'cat breed'.
This cat breed is very gentle.
Refers to 'bloodline' or 'pedigree', often used for purebred animals. More about lineage than the breed name itself.
It's a dog with a pedigree.
Animals producing offspring
The most common verb for animals breeding or reproducing. Can be used intransitively (animals breed) or transitively (humans breed animals).
Rabbits breed quickly.
He breeds rare birds.
Means 'to raise' or 'to keep' animals. Often implies breeding as part of raising them, but focuses on the care aspect.
She breeds/raises dogs.
Specifically means 'to crossbreed' or 'to mate' animals. More technical.
Crossbreed different breeds.
To lead to or encourage the development of something, like resentment or violence
Literally 'to give birth', but figuratively means 'to breed' or 'to generate' something like conflict, misunderstanding, etc.
Poverty breeds crime.
The policy bred discontent.
Means 'to cause' or 'to bring about'. A more general term for causing negative outcomes.
Means 'to promote' or 'to encourage' the growth of something, often negative. Can be used for breeding bad habits.
Spoiling breeds laziness.
The word 品種 (hinshu) is only for animals and plants. Using it for humans would be dehumanizing. For human 'breeds' or races, use 人種 (jinshu) or 民族 (minzoku).
繁殖する (hanshoku suru) focuses on the act of reproduction. 飼育する (shiiku suru) focuses on the overall raising and care of animals, which may include breeding. If you want to emphasize the reproductive aspect, use 繁殖する.
Misunderstandings breed conflict.