Translation guide
The English word "drugs" can refer to medicine, illegal substances, or substances that affect the body. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression based on context.
Referring to substances used for medical treatment, whether prescription or over-the-counter.
The most common and general word for medicine or drugs. Can be used for both prescription and over-the-counter drugs. Context usually makes it clear that it's medicine, not illegal drugs.
Please take this medicine three times a day.
I bought medicine at the pharmacy.
A more formal term for pharmaceutical products. Often used in official contexts, such as on labels or in medical settings.
Referring to substances used for non-medical purposes, often illegal.
The standard term for narcotics or illegal drugs. It carries a strong negative connotation and is used in legal and news contexts.
He was arrested for drug trafficking.
You must never use drugs.
A loanword from English, often used in media or casual conversation to refer to illegal drugs. Can sound slightly sensational or informal.
A formal term meaning 'illegal drugs'. Used in legal documents or news reports.
Using illegal drugs is a crime.
Talking about drug addiction, abuse, or the social problem of drugs.
Referring to any chemical substance that has a physiological effect, often in scientific contexts.
While ドラッグ is understood, it can sound overly casual or sensational. In formal or serious discussions, use 麻薬 or 薬物.
Narcotics Control Law
The word 薬 is neutral and can mean both 'medicine' and 'drugs' depending on context. To clarify, you can add modifiers like 違法な (illegal) or 処方 (prescription).
This drug has side effects.
彼はドラッグに手を出した。
He got into drugs.
He is receiving treatment for drug addiction.
Means 'chemical substance'. Not specific to drugs, but can be used in contexts discussing the chemical nature of drugs.
That drug contains dangerous chemical substances.