Translation guide
A substance that kills germs, used for cleaning surfaces, wounds, or skin. Japanese distinguishes between medical antiseptics, household disinfectants, and sterilizing agents.
A chemical liquid or spray used to kill germs on surfaces, in bathrooms, kitchens, etc.
The most common general term for disinfectant solution. Used for household cleaning, hand sanitizing, etc.
This disinfectant is effective against viruses.
Please wipe the kitchen sink with disinfectant.
A broader term for disinfectant agents, including powders, tablets, etc. Slightly more technical than 消毒液.
This disinfectant is dissolved in water before use.
Specifically a spray-type disinfectant, often used for fabrics, air, or surfaces. '除菌' means 'bacteria removal'.
I sprayed disinfectant on the sofa.
A substance applied to skin or wounds to prevent infection.
Also used for skin disinfection, but often specified as '傷の消毒液' (wound disinfectant).
Please apply disinfectant to the wound.
Rubbing alcohol, the most common skin antiseptic. Often used for hand sanitizing.
I wiped my hands with rubbing alcohol.
A stronger term meaning 'germicide', used more in medical or industrial contexts. Can be too harsh for skin.
A gel or liquid for hand disinfection without water.
Formal term for hand sanitizer. Often seen in hospitals or public places.
Hand sanitizer is placed at the entrance.
Alcohol-based hand sanitizer, often in gel form. Very common in daily conversation.
Short for 'alcohol for hand use'. Common on product labels.
This hand sanitizer is quick-drying.
消毒 (shōdoku) means disinfection, killing harmful microorganisms. 除菌 (jokin) means removing or reducing bacteria, often used for household products. 殺菌 (sakkin) means sterilization or killing all microorganisms, a stronger term. For everyday 'disinfectant', 消毒液 is safest.
Mouthwash or gargle is うがい薬 (ugaiyaku), not 消毒液. Using surface disinfectant in the mouth is dangerous.
Do not use this germicide on skin.
Please sanitize your hands with alcohol-based hand sanitizer.