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.
down payment (general)
deposit (contract)
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'.
I'm saving for a down payment on a house.
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.
I paid a deposit at the time of contract.
A partial payment or deposit, often used in business transactions. Less common in everyday conversation.
We'll take 50,000 yen as a deposit.
The initial payment in a series of installments, such as for a loan or layaway.
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.
If you put down a larger down payment, your monthly payments will be easier.
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.
I paid the down payment for the installment plan.