Translation guide
A crossbow is a ranged weapon that shoots bolts. In Japanese, the most common term is ボウガン (bōgan), a loanword from English. The traditional Japanese term is 石弓 (ishiyumi), though it is less common in modern contexts. This guide covers how to refer to crossbows in various settings.
The learner wants to refer to a crossbow in everyday conversation, games, or modern contexts.
The most common and widely understood term for 'crossbow' in modern Japanese, borrowed from English. Used in video games, sports, and general references.
彼はボウガンで的を射った。
He shot the target with a crossbow.
An alternative loanword, less common than ボウガン but still understood, especially in fantasy or gaming contexts.
このゲームではクロスボウが使える。
You can use a crossbow in this game.
The traditional Japanese word for crossbow, literally 'stone bow'. It is historical and rarely used in modern conversation, but may appear in historical texts or discussions of ancient weapons.
石弓は中世の戦いで使われた。
Crossbows were used in medieval battles.
The learner wants to discuss crossbows in Japanese history or traditional weaponry.
A kanji term for crossbow, often used in historical or technical contexts. It can also refer to large mounted crossbows. Not commonly used in everyday speech.
弩は城攻めに用いられた。
Crossbows were used in castle sieges.
Literally 'great bow', this term can sometimes refer to a crossbow-like weapon in historical contexts, but it more commonly means a longbow. Use with caution.
This word usually means 'longbow' rather than 'crossbow'. Only use it when the context clearly indicates a crossbow-like weapon.
大弓は強力な武器だった。
The great bow was a powerful weapon.
For most situations, especially in modern contexts like games or sports, use ボウガン. If you are discussing historical Japanese weapons, 石弓 or 弩 may be more appropriate, but they are less familiar to average speakers.