Translation guide
The English word "crossbreed" can be a verb (to produce offspring by mating different breeds or species) or a noun (the resulting offspring). This guide covers both uses, with natural Japanese equivalents.
They are crossbreeding a new breed of dog.
Literally 'to cross and combine'. Common in breeding contexts, especially for plants. Slightly more casual than 交配する.
This rose was created by crossbreeding two varieties.
Specifically means crossbreeding between different species. Technical term used in biology.
A liger is born by crossbreeding a lion and a tiger.
The offspring resulting from crossbreeding, often called a hybrid or cross.
General term for a crossbred variety or breed. Used for both animals and plants.
This dog is a crossbreed.
Common word for a mixed breed or mongrel, especially for dogs. Can have a slightly negative connotation (mutt), but is widely used neutrally in biology.
Technical term for a hybrid between different species. Used in scientific contexts.
交配種 (kōhaishu) is a neutral term for any crossbred organism, often used in breeding contexts. 雑種 (zasshu) is more common in everyday speech for mixed-breed dogs or cats, but can imply 'mongrel' if used negatively. In scientific contexts, 雑種 is the standard translation for 'hybrid'.
There is no single Japanese word that perfectly matches the English noun 'crossbreed' in all contexts. Use 交配種 for formal/breeding contexts, 雑種 for pets, or ハイブリッド for plants/technology.
うちの犬は雑種だけど、とてもかわいい。
Our dog is a crossbreed, but very cute.
Loanword from English 'hybrid'. Commonly used for plants, cars, and technology. Also used for animals but less common than 交配種 or 雑種.
This tomato is a hybrid variety.
Crossbreeds between species are often infertile.