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.
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.
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.
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.
I'll have a whiskey and water, please.
Brandy. Less common than whiskey but well-known.
Gin. Popular in cocktails.
Vodka. Used in many cocktails.
Rum. Less common in Japan but available.
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.
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.
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.
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.
ブランデーは食後に飲むことが多い。
Brandy is often drunk after a meal.
I'll have a gin and tonic, please.
Vodka is often used as a base for cocktails.
Rum is made from sugarcane.