Translation guide
In Japanese, the general term for distilled liquor is 蒸留酒 (じょうりゅうしゅ). However, in everyday conversation, specific types like 焼酎 (しょうちゅう) or ウイスキー are more common. The choice depends on the context and the specific drink.
The learner wants to refer to distilled liquor as a category, for example in a technical or formal context.
The standard technical term for distilled liquor. Used in formal contexts, on labels, and in discussions about alcohol categories.
蒸留酒は醸造酒よりもアルコール度数が高い。
Distilled liquor has a higher alcohol content than brewed liquor.
Loanword from English 'spirits'. Commonly used in bars and by enthusiasts, but may not be understood by all.
このバーはスピリッツの種類が豊富だ。
This bar has a wide selection of spirits.
The learner wants to refer specifically to Japanese distilled liquor, often made from sweet potato, barley, or rice.
The most common Japanese distilled liquor. Often enjoyed straight, on the rocks, or mixed with water or tea.
焼酎のお湯割りをください。
I'll have shochu with hot water, please.
A type of distilled liquor from Okinawa, made from Thai rice and black koji mold. Distinct from mainland shochu.
The learner wants to refer to specific types of Western distilled liquor.
Whiskey. The most common Western distilled liquor in Japan. Often enjoyed as a highball.
ウイスキーの水割りをください。
I'll have a whiskey and water, please.
Brandy. Less common than whiskey but well-known.
Gin. Popular in cocktails.
ジントニックをください。
I'll have a gin and tonic, please.
Vodka. Used in many cocktails.
Rum. Less common in Japan but available.
ラム酒はサトウキビから作られる。
Rum is made from sugarcane.
The learner wants to order or discuss distilled liquor in a casual setting like an izakaya.
In casual settings, Japanese people rarely use the generic term '蒸留酒'. Instead, they name the specific drink (焼酎, ウイスキー, etc.) or just say お酒 (おさけ) for alcohol in general.
とりあえず焼酎！
I'll start with shochu!
If the type of liquor is clear from context or you don't need to specify, お酒 is a natural catch-all.
お酒は何にしますか？
What would you like to drink? (alcohol)
蒸留酒 is a technical term. Using it in a bar or restaurant might sound stiff or overly formal. Stick to specific drink names or お酒.
蒸留酒をください。
Please give me distilled liquor. (unnatural)
沖縄では泡盛がよく飲まれている。
Awamori is commonly drunk in Okinawa.
Brandy is often drunk after a meal.
Vodka is often used as a base for cocktails.