Translation guide
A guide to referring to female genitals in Japanese, from clinical to slang, with notes on politeness and context.
To refer to female genitals in a formal, medical, or educational context.
The standard clinical term for female genitalia. Used in medical settings, textbooks, and formal discussions.
Learn about the structure of female genitals.
Refers specifically to the external female genitalia (vulva). More precise than 女性器.
I'm concerned about itching in the vulvar area.
Means 'vagina'. Used in medical and educational contexts, but can be too direct in casual conversation.
Vaginal health is important.
To refer to female genitals indirectly in polite conversation, often when discussing health or body issues.
Literally 'there'. A common euphemism for genitals (male or female) in polite conversation. Context clarifies gender.
I have an itch down there.
Literally 'the lower area'. A vague euphemism for the genital region.
I feel discomfort in my lower area.
To refer to female genitals in very casual, crude, or sexual contexts. Use with extreme caution.
The most common vulgar slang for vagina. Highly offensive in polite settings. Used among close friends or in sexual contexts.
Extremely vulgar. Do not use in formal or polite situations.
Show me your pussy.
Slightly more emphatic or playful version of まんこ, with the honorific お. Still very vulgar.
Literally 'split' or 'crack'. Slang for the vulva, emphasizing the cleft. Used in erotic contexts.
To refer to female genitals in a childish, cute, or euphemistic way, often used with children or in lighthearted contexts.
A childish word for the crotch or genital area. Used by or with children, or playfully among adults.
Wash your private parts, okay?
Primarily a childish word for penis, but sometimes used generically for genitals. Not female-specific.
Usually refers to male genitals. Context may clarify, but better to use おまた for females.
Private parts aren't just for boys.
To refer to specific parts of female genitals in a neutral or descriptive way.
Directly translating 'female genitals' into Japanese as 女性器 can sound overly clinical or awkward in everyday conversation. Use euphemisms like あそこ or 下のほう when speaking politely about the area.
It hurts down there.
Slang terms like まんこ are extremely vulgar and should only be used in very informal, often sexual, contexts. Clinical terms like 女性器 or 膣 are appropriate for medical discussions but may sound too direct in casual chat. Euphemisms strike a balance for polite daily use.
Borrowed from English 'delicate zone'. Used in advertising and polite conversation for the genital area.
Products for delicate zone care.
おまんこ濡れてる？
Is your pussy wet?
The slit is clearly visible.
Sagging of the labia majora.
The shape of the labia minora varies from person to person.