Translation guide
A place for medical treatment, usually smaller than a hospital. In Japanese, the most common word is クリニック, but 診療所 and 医院 are also used. The choice depends on context and formality.
A place where you go to see a doctor for non-emergency treatment, check-ups, or minor procedures.
The most common and neutral term for a clinic in modern Japanese. Often used for private practices and specialized clinics.
I went to a local clinic.
I'm looking for a dermatology clinic.
A more formal or official term for a clinic. Often used in legal or administrative contexts.
There are few clinics in this area.
Traditionally used for a doctor's private practice. Still common in names of older clinics.
Yamada Clinic is near the station.
A clinic within a hospital or a facility focusing on a specific medical field.
A clinic offering free or reduced-cost medical services, often run by charities or the government.
A clinic for animals.
A clinic for dental care.
クリニック (clinic) is generally smaller than 病院 (hospital). In Japan, a 病院 usually has 20 or more beds for inpatients, while a クリニック has fewer or none. However, many small facilities use 病院 in their name, so the distinction is not always strict.
Going to a big hospital is a hassle, so I went to a clinic first.
The English word 'clinic' can also mean a seminar or workshop (e.g., 'golf clinic'). In Japanese, this is usually 講習会 (こうしゅうかい) or クリニック (as loanword for sports clinics). Do not use 診療所 for this meaning.
Can I be seen at the outpatient clinic?
A specialized outpatient clinic, e.g., for diabetes or asthma.
I made an appointment at the diabetes clinic.
Many people use low-cost clinics.
I'm looking for a vet clinic.
I'm going to the dentist (dental clinic) tomorrow.