Translation guide
In Japanese, referring to a former girlfriend depends on context and relationship. The most common and neutral term is 元カノ (motokano), but other expressions exist for formal situations or when emphasizing the past relationship.
To refer to a former girlfriend in everyday conversation.
The most common and natural way to say 'former girlfriend' in casual or neutral contexts. It is a combination of 元 (former) and カノ, short for 彼女 (girlfriend).
I ran into my former girlfriend yesterday.
I'm still friends with my former girlfriend.
Literally 'previous girlfriend'. Slightly more explicit than 元カノ, but still natural in casual speech.
I haven't seen my former girlfriend since we broke up.
Means 'old girlfriend' or 'girlfriend from the past'. Can imply a longer time has passed since the relationship.
I remembered my former girlfriend from long ago.
To refer to a former girlfriend in formal or written contexts.
To stress that the relationship is over or to refer to an ex in a more emotional context.
A direct combination of 元 (former) and 彼女 (girlfriend). Less common than 元カノ but still used, especially in writing.
I found a letter from my former girlfriend.
Literally 'girlfriend I broke up with'. Emphasizes the breakup itself.
I'm still hung up on my former girlfriend.
The direct translation '前のガールフレンド' is not natural Japanese. Use 元カノ or 前の彼女 instead.
If you want a gender-neutral term for 'former partner', use 元恋人 (もとこいびと) or 元パートナー (もとパートナー).
I was engaged to my former girlfriend.