Translation guide
A partial payment made at the time of purchase, with the balance to be paid later. In Japanese, this is commonly expressed with specific financial terms, but the most natural choice depends on context.
The buyer pays a portion of the total price upfront, often to secure the item or as a first installment.
The standard term for a down payment, especially for large purchases like a house or car. Literally 'head money'.
家を買うために頭金を貯めています。
I'm saving for a down payment on a house.
頭金はいくら必要ですか？
How much is required for a down payment?
Earnest money or deposit paid when signing a contract, often for real estate. It can be forfeited if the buyer backs out.
契約時に手付金を支払いました。
I paid a deposit at the time of contract.
A partial payment or deposit, often used in business transactions. Less common in everyday conversation.
内金として5万円お預かりします。
We'll take 50,000 yen as a deposit.
The initial payment in a series of installments, such as for a loan or layaway.
Literally 'first payment'. Used when referring to the first installment of a payment plan.
初回の支払いは来月です。
The first payment is next month.
Can also be used for the initial lump sum in installment plans, though it often implies a larger upfront amount.
分割払いの頭金を払った。
I paid the down payment for the installment plan.
頭金 (atamakin) is a general down payment that reduces the total amount financed. 手付金 (tetsukekin) is a deposit to show commitment, often refundable or forfeitable under certain conditions. Use 頭金 for most purchases; use 手付金 when signing a contract, especially in real estate.
頭金を多めに入れると、月々の返済が楽になります。
If you put down a larger down payment, your monthly payments will be easier.
手付金を払った後にキャンセルすると、戻ってこない場合があります。
If you cancel after paying the deposit, you may not get it back.
Do not translate 'down payment' literally as 下の支払い (shita no shiharai) or 下払い (shitabarai). These are not used and will cause confusion.