Translation guide
A device or container that releases a specific amount of something, such as liquid, tape, or tickets. Japanese uses different words depending on what is being dispensed.
A container that releases liquid when pressed or pumped, commonly for soap, hand sanitizer, or lotion.
A loanword from English, widely understood for pump-type liquid dispensers, especially in public restrooms or for hand sanitizer.
トイレにハンドソープのディスペンサーがあります。
There is a hand soap dispenser in the restroom.
Often used for the pump mechanism itself, or in compound words like ポンプボトル (pump bottle). Common for lotion or soap dispensers.
このポンプを押して、消毒液を出してください。
Press this pump to dispense the hand sanitizer.
Specifically a soap dispenser. Used when you need to be precise, but ディスペンサー alone is often enough.
キッチンに自動ソープディスペンサーを置いています。
I have an automatic soap dispenser in the kitchen.
A device that holds and cuts adhesive tape, typically on a desk.
The most common term for a desktop tape dispenser. Emphasizes the cutting function.
テープカッターを取ってください。
Please pass me the tape dispenser.
Specifically for cellophane tape dispensers. セロテープ is a common brand-derived term for clear adhesive tape.
セロテープカッターが壊れたので、新しいのを買わないと。
The tape dispenser broke, so I need to buy a new one.
A machine that issues tickets, meal coupons, or other paper items, often after inserting money.
Standard term for a ticket vending machine, such as those at train stations or restaurants.
券売機で切符を買ってください。
Please buy a ticket at the ticket dispenser.
A freestanding appliance that provides hot and cold drinking water, often with large bottles.
The standard term for a water dispenser in homes and offices. Note the loanword 'server' rather than 'dispenser'.
オフィスにウォーターサーバーがあります。
There is a water dispenser in the office.
A more generic term for a water dispenser, sometimes used in public facilities. Less common in everyday conversation.
公園に給水機が設置されました。
A water dispenser was installed in the park.
A container that releases small items one at a time, like candy or pills.
For many small-item dispensers, you can combine the item name with ディスペンサー, e.g., キャンディディスペンサー (candy dispenser).
子どもがキャンディディスペンサーで遊んでいる。
The child is playing with a candy dispenser.
Specifically a pill dispenser or pill case, often with compartments for days of the week.
薬をピルケースに入れて持ち歩いています。
I carry my medicine in a pill dispenser.
General term for vending machines, including those that dispense drinks or tickets. Often abbreviated to 自販機 (じはんき).
駅の自動販売機で切符を買えます。
You can buy tickets at the station's dispenser.