Translation guide
The English word 'firearms' refers to portable guns. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 銃器 (jūki), but depending on context, other terms like 火器 (kaki) or 鉄砲 (teppō) may be used. This guide covers the main ways to express 'firearms' in Japanese, from general terms to specific types.
Referring to firearms as a category of weapons, especially in formal, legal, or technical contexts.
The standard modern term for 'firearms' or 'small arms'. Used in official, legal, and technical contexts.
銃器の所持は法律で厳しく規制されている。
Possession of firearms is strictly regulated by law.
A broader term that includes all firearms and sometimes other explosive weapons. Often used in military contexts.
敵は重火器で武装していた。
The enemy was armed with heavy firearms.
A traditional term for guns, especially matchlock rifles. Still used colloquially or historically, but can sound old-fashioned.
昔の侍は鉄砲を使った。
Samurai of old used firearms.
Specifically referring to handguns or small firearms, often in crime or police contexts.
The standard word for 'handgun' or 'pistol'. Used in police and legal contexts.
犯人は拳銃を所持していた。
The suspect was carrying a handgun.
Loanword from English 'pistol'. Common in everyday speech, but less formal than 拳銃.
Distinguishing firearms from blades, bows, or other weapon types.
A compound term meaning 'guns and firearms', often used to contrast with cold weapons.
銃火器類の持ち込みは禁止されています。
Bringing in firearms of any kind is prohibited.
Referring to antique or matchlock guns, often in historical contexts.
Matchlock gun, the type introduced to Japan in the 16th century. Used in historical discussions.
火縄銃は戦国時代に広まった。
Matchlock firearms spread during the Warring States period.
銃器 (jūki) specifically means portable firearms (small arms), while 火器 (kaki) is a broader term that can include cannons and other gunpowder weapons. In most everyday contexts, 銃器 is the better choice for 'firearms'.
The literal translation 火の武器 (hi no buki) is not a standard term and would sound strange. Use 銃器 or 火器 instead.
警察は大量の銃器を押収した。
The police seized a large number of firearms.
彼は銃器所持の許可を持っている。
He has a license to own firearms.
彼はポケットにピストルを隠していた。
He had a pistol hidden in his pocket.