Translation guide
The word 'enamel' has two main meanings: a glossy coating (paint, nail polish, or tooth surface) and the hard outer layer of teeth. This guide focuses on the tooth-related meaning, which is the most common use for learners.
The hard, protective outer layer of a tooth.
The standard medical/dental term for tooth enamel. Used in formal and technical contexts.
A hard, shiny paint or coating used on surfaces, nails, or in art.
エナメル質は体の中で最も硬い組織です。
Enamel is the hardest tissue in the body.
A more descriptive phrase meaning 'tooth enamel'. Common in everyday conversation.
歯のエナメルが傷つくと虫歯になりやすくなります。
If the enamel on your teeth gets damaged, you become more prone to cavities.
An older or more literary term for enamel, sometimes used in dental contexts. Rare in modern speech.
琺瑯質の形成不全は遺伝的要因によることがあります。
Enamel hypoplasia can be caused by genetic factors.
The loanword 'enamel' is widely used for glossy paints, nail polish, and similar coatings.
このエナメル塗料は乾くと光沢が出ます。
This enamel paint becomes glossy when it dries.
彼女は赤いエナメルのネイルをしている。
She is wearing red enamel nail polish.
Refers to vitreous enamel, such as on pots, pans, or bathtubs. Often used in compound words like 琺瑯鍋 (enamel pot).
琺瑯の鍋は酸に強いです。
Enamel pots are resistant to acid.
Traditional Japanese lacquerware, sometimes translated as 'enamel' in artistic contexts, but it is a different material. Use with caution.
Not true enamel; refers to lacquer. Only use when the context is traditional Japanese crafts.
この漆塗りの箱は美しい。
This lacquerware box is beautiful.