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.
Enamel is the hardest tissue in the body.
A more descriptive phrase meaning 'tooth enamel'. Common in everyday conversation.
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.
Enamel hypoplasia can be caused by genetic factors.
A hard, shiny paint or coating used on surfaces, nails, or in art.
The loanword 'enamel' is widely used for glossy paints, nail polish, and similar coatings.
This enamel paint becomes glossy when it dries.
Refers to vitreous enamel, such as on pots, pans, or bathtubs. Often used in compound words like 琺瑯鍋 (enamel pot).
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.
エナメル is the general loanword for glossy coatings (nail polish, paint). 琺瑯 specifically refers to vitreous enamel on metal, like cookware. For teeth, エナメル質 is standard.
patent leather bag (literally 'enamel bag')
enamel bathtub
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.
琺瑯の鍋は酸に強いです。
Enamel pots are resistant to acid.
この漆塗りの箱は美しい。
This lacquerware box is beautiful.