Translation guide
The English word "domestic" covers several distinct meanings. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression depending on whether they mean "within a country," "related to home/family life," or "of a tame animal."
Referring to things that happen inside a country, such as flights, news, or products.
The most common and neutral word for "domestic" in the sense of "within a country." Used for flights, news, markets, etc.
I'll take a domestic flight.
I'm watching domestic news.
A more formal or legal term for "domestic" (within a country). Often used in official documents or economics.
The domestic consumption tax has increased.
Describing things connected to the home, household chores, or family matters.
Refers to the home, family, or household. Used in phrases like "domestic life" or "domestic chores."
I quit my job due to domestic circumstances.
She is a domestic person (home-loving).
Specifically means "housework" or "domestic chores." Use this when talking about cleaning, cooking, etc.
Means "within the household" or "domestic" in the sense of inside the home. Often used for issues like domestic violence.
Domestic violence is a problem.
Describing animals that are kept by humans, such as pets or livestock.
Means "tamed" or "domesticated." Used for animals that have been trained to live with humans.
Dogs are domestic animals.
Refers to "livestock" or "domestic animals" raised for agricultural purposes.
The loanword for "pet." Commonly used for domestic companion animals.
国内 (こくない) is for "domestic" as opposed to "international" (e.g., domestic flights). 家庭 (かてい) is for "domestic" as in "home/family" (e.g., domestic life). Do not confuse them.
The loanword ドメスティック is sometimes used in Japanese, but it often carries a negative connotation (e.g., ドメスティックバイオレンス for domestic violence). Avoid using it as a general translation for "domestic."
Let's share the domestic chores.
We raise domestic animals (livestock).
I keep a cat as a domestic pet.