Translation guide
A colloquialism is a word, phrase, or expression used in everyday conversation rather than formal writing. This guide helps you express the idea of 'colloquialism' naturally in Japanese, covering terms for informal language, common colloquial expressions, and how to describe something as colloquial.
Referring to the general idea of informal, everyday language as opposed to formal or literary language.
The standard term for 'colloquial language' or 'spoken language'. Often used in linguistic contexts or when contrasting with written language (文語).
この表現は口語でよく使われます。
This expression is often used in colloquial language.
Literally 'spoken language'. Emphasizes the spoken, conversational nature. More everyday than 口語.
話し言葉では、そういう言い方はあまりしません。
In spoken language, we don't really say it that way.
Refers to slang or vulgar language. More specific than general colloquialism; implies a lower register or subculture usage.
それは俗語だから、改まった場では使わないほうがいい。
That's slang, so you shouldn't use it in formal situations.
Referring to a particular word or expression that is colloquial in nature.
The most direct translation for 'colloquialism' as a countable item. Means 'colloquial expression'.
「やばい」はよく使われる口語表現です。
'Yabai' is a commonly used colloquial expression.
Literally 'expression of spoken language'. A slightly more descriptive alternative to 口語表現.
この話し言葉の表現は若者の間で人気です。
This colloquial expression is popular among young people.
Can also mean a slang term. Use only when the colloquialism is markedly informal or slangy.
Saying that a word, phrase, or style is colloquial.
An adjective meaning 'colloquial'. Used to describe language or style.
この言い回しはとても口語的ですね。
This phrasing is very colloquial, isn't it?
A casual way to say 'sounds like spoken language' or 'colloquial-ish'. The suffix っぽい adds a sense of '-like'.
その書き方はちょっと話し言葉っぽいよ。
That way of writing is a bit colloquial.
Means 'informal' or 'casual'. Often used to describe language or atmosphere. Not a direct translation of 'colloquialism' but very common when describing informal speech.
くだけた表現を使ってもいいですか。
Is it okay to use informal expressions?
While 俗語 can translate 'colloquialism' in some dictionaries, it often implies slang or vulgarity. For general informal language, use 口語 or 話し言葉 instead.
In Japanese, 口語 (colloquial language) is a broad category that includes everyday speech, while 俗語 (slang) is a subset of very informal, sometimes rough language. Be careful not to label normal casual speech as 俗語.
彼の話し方には口語表現がたくさん含まれている。
He uses a lot of colloquialisms in his speech.
Natural translation using 口語表現.
「gonna」は口語表現ですか？
Is 'gonna' a colloquialism?
That word is slang, so don't use it with superiors.