Translation guide
The practice of dressing up as a character from anime, manga, video games, movies, or other media. In Japanese, the word is コスプレ (kosupure), a loanword from English 'costume play'. This guide covers how to talk about cosplay naturally in Japanese.
Referring to the act of dressing up as a character, often at events or conventions.
Referring to the actual costume or outfit worn for cosplay.
Cosplay costume. 衣装 means costume or outfit.
This cosplay costume is handmade.
The English loanword 'costume', often used in the context of cosplay or Halloween.
Dressing up in costume, often for Halloween or parties. Less specific to anime/game characters than コスプレ.
Referring to an event where cosplay takes place.
コスプレする is the most common way to say 'to cosplay'. You can specify the character with を: 「初音ミクをコスプレする」 (to cosplay as Hatsune Miku).
コスプレ specifically refers to dressing as characters from anime, manga, games, etc. 仮装 is a broader term for dressing up in costume, including Halloween, masquerades, or historical costumes. Use コスプレ for otaku culture contexts.
Dressing up for Halloween is fun.
I cosplay anime characters.
I love cosplay.
She cosplayed as Sailor Moon.
Where did you buy that cosplay costume?
Which character are you going to cosplay at the next event?
A cosplayer; someone who does cosplay.
He is a famous cosplayer.
I bought a costume for Halloween.
仮装パーティーに行く。
I'm going to a costume party.
コミケでコスプレするのが夢です。
It's my dream to cosplay at Comiket.