Translation guide
The act of passing feces from the body. In Japanese, the most common and neutral term is 排便 (はいべん), used in medical and everyday contexts. More casual or direct expressions exist, but many are considered crude or childish.
The standard, polite way to refer to defecation in general, suitable for medical contexts, formal writing, or polite conversation.
The most common and neutral term for defecation. Used in medical settings, health discussions, and everyday polite speech.
Regular daily defecation is good for your health.
The frequency of defecation has decreased.
Literally 'to do a bowel movement'. More direct than 排便 but still acceptable in everyday conversation. 大便 (だいべん) means feces.
I often have a bowel movement right after waking up.
Refers to bowel movements, often used when discussing regularity or constipation. Common in health contexts.
I haven't had a bowel movement.
Expressions used in informal conversation among friends or family. Some are childish or euphemistic.
Childish or informal word for poop/defecation. Commonly used with children or in very casual settings. うんち is the noun.
The child said, 'I want to poop.'
More direct and slightly cruder than うんち. Often used by boys or in rough speech. Can be considered vulgar in polite company.
Avoid in formal or polite situations; can sound crude.
The dog pooped on the street.
Euphemistic way to say 'go to the bathroom', implying defecation or urination depending on context. Very common and polite enough for most situations.
I'm going to the bathroom for a moment.
Used in official documents, medical reports, or very polite speech.
General term for excretion, including defecation and urination. Used in medical and formal contexts.
Assistance with excretion is necessary.
Very informal, often crude expressions. Use with caution.
Literally 'to do shit'. Extremely vulgar. Used only in very rough speech or as an insult.
Highly offensive; avoid unless you fully understand the context.
That bastard took a shit on the side of the road.
While 排便 is the direct equivalent, in casual conversation it can sound overly clinical. Use euphemisms like トイレに行く or context-appropriate terms.
Both mean 'poop', but うんち is softer and more childish, while うんこ is rougher and more direct. うんち is preferred when speaking to or about young children; うんこ can be used among close friends but may be considered vulgar.