Translation guide
The English word "delivery" covers several distinct concepts in Japanese. The most common meanings relate to the physical delivery of goods or mail, but it can also refer to childbirth, the manner of speaking or performing, and more. This guide breaks down the key uses and provides natural Japanese equivalents.
The act of transporting and handing over items to a recipient.
package delivery · food delivery · mail delivery
The most common word for delivery of mail, packages, or ordered goods. Often used for home delivery services.
郵便配達は午前中に来ます。
The mail delivery comes in the morning.
ピザの配達を頼んだ。
I ordered pizza delivery.
Refers to the process of shipping and delivering goods, often used in commercial or logistics contexts. Slightly more formal than 配達.
商品の配送状況を確認できます。
You can check the delivery status of your order.
Specifically refers to home delivery services, like parcel delivery to a residence. Often used in service names (e.g., 宅配便).
宅配サービスを利用する。
I use a home delivery service.
Loanword from English, commonly used for food delivery or courier services. Casual and widely understood.
デリバリーで寿司を注文した。
I ordered sushi for delivery.
The act of giving birth to a baby.
a difficult delivery · the delivery went smoothly · delivery room
The standard term for childbirth or delivery of a baby. Used in medical and everyday contexts.
彼女は無事に出産を終えた。
She had a safe delivery.
出産予定日は来月です。
The expected delivery date is next month.
Medical term for delivery/labor. More clinical than 出産.
A slightly softer, more traditional term for childbirth. Often used in conversation.
The style or effectiveness with which someone speaks, sings, or acts.
a good delivery · his delivery was monotone · comedic delivery
Refers to one's way of speaking, including delivery of a speech or presentation. Focuses on style and clarity.
彼の話し方はとても説得力がある。
His delivery is very persuasive.
Specifically a speech or oration. Can imply the delivery of a formal address.
Expressive power or delivery in performance, such as acting or singing. Emphasizes emotional conveyance.
The way of conveying a message; can refer to delivery of information or feelings.
内容よりも伝え方が大事だ。
The delivery is more important than the content.
The act of formally giving something to someone, often in legal or official contexts.
delivery of the prisoner · delivery of the deed
Used for the delivery of a person (e.g., extradition) or property (e.g., handing over keys). Formal.
犯人の引き渡しが行われた。
The delivery of the criminal was carried out.
鍵の引き渡しは明日です。
The delivery of the keys is tomorrow.
Legal term for service or delivery of documents. Very formal.
The act of providing or supplying something, often a utility or service.
delivery of healthcare · delivery of electricity
General term for supply or provision. Can be used for delivery of electricity, water, etc.
電力の供給が止まった。
The delivery of electricity stopped.
Offering or provision of a service, information, or opportunity. Often used for service delivery.
While デリバリー is common for food and package delivery, it is never used for childbirth. Use 出産 or 分娩 instead.
出産は大変だった。
The delivery was tough.
配達 is the most general term for delivery to an individual. 配送 is often used for the shipping/logistics process. 宅配 specifically means home delivery and is common in service names like 宅配便 (courier service).
分娩室に入りました。
She entered the delivery room.
I heard the delivery was easy.
大統領の演説は力強いものだった。
The president's delivery was powerful.
彼女の歌の表現力は素晴らしい。
Her vocal delivery is wonderful.
書類の送達が完了しました。
The delivery of the documents has been completed.
サービスの提供を開始します。
We will start the delivery of the service.