Translation guide
The English word "code" covers several distinct concepts: a system of rules or laws, a secret cipher, computer programming instructions, and a symbolic identification system. Japanese uses different words for each meaning.
A set of rules, principles, or laws that govern behavior or practice.
code of conduct · dress code · moral code · legal code
Refers to a standard, norm, or code of conduct. Often used in moral or social contexts.
follow social codes
General term for rules or regulations. Can be used for a code of conduct, but is broader.
follow the school code
Specifically a legal code or statute book. Formal and technical.
amend the civil code
A system of symbols or rules used to represent a message in secret form.
secret code · break a code · code word · passcode
The standard word for a cipher, code, or encryption. Used for secret codes, passwords, and cryptography.
send a message in code
break a code
Loanword from English, often used in technical contexts like computer encryption or access codes.
A password or watchword, often a spoken phrase used for identification.
Instructions written in a programming language.
write code · source code · code review · debug code
A system of symbols, numbers, or letters used to identify something, such as an area code or product code.
area code · barcode · product code · PIN code
Loanword used for various identification codes (area code, product code, etc.).
area code
scan a barcode
Means 'number' and is often used in contexts where English uses 'code', like PIN code.
Refers to a symbol or mark, sometimes used for codes like airport codes.
暗号 (angō) is the native Japanese word for cipher/code and is preferred in traditional or non-technical contexts. コード (kōdo) is a loanword and is more common in modern technical settings like computer encryption or passcodes.
While コード can mean 'code' in many technical senses, it is not used for moral or behavioral codes. Use 規範 (kihan) or 規則 (kisoku) instead.
Please enter the passcode
Say the code word
fix the code
暗証番号
PIN code
The airport code is a three-letter symbol