Translation guide
The English word 'furry' can refer to a subculture, a person in that subculture, or an anthropomorphic animal character. It can also literally mean 'covered with fur'. This guide focuses on the subculture and character meanings, which are the most common uses in modern English.
Referring to a character that is an animal with human traits, or the art style depicting such characters.
The most common Japanese term for anthropomorphic animal characters, especially in anime/manga and furry fandom contexts. Can also mean 'beast' or 'animal' in general, but in context it's understood.
彼はケモノのイラストを描くのが好きです。
He likes drawing furry illustrations.
Literally 'beast person', this is a more formal or descriptive term for anthropomorphic animals. Common in fantasy and furry contexts.
このゲームには獣人のキャラクターがたくさん登場します。
Many furry characters appear in this game.
A direct loanword from English, used within the Japanese furry fandom but not widely understood outside it.
ファーリーのコンベンションに行ってみたい。
I want to go to a furry convention.
Referring to a fan of anthropomorphic animals, often someone who creates or enjoys furry art, stories, or costumes.
Literally 'likes kemono', this is a natural way to describe someone who is into furry characters or the fandom.
彼女はケモノ好きで、よくコスプレをしています。
She's a furry and often does cosplay.
A straightforward combination: 'juujin' (beast person) + 'fan'. Clear and understandable.
獣人ファンのコミュニティがオンラインで盛り上がっている。
The furry fan community is thriving online.
Again, the loanword, used within the fandom to refer to a furry fan. Not widely known outside the subculture.
彼は自分をファーリーだと言っている。
He says he's a furry.
Describing an animal or object that has a fur covering.
Means 'hairy' or 'shaggy', often used for animals. Can be slightly negative if used for people, but fine for animals.
その犬は毛むくじゃらで、触ると気持ちいい。
That dog is furry and feels nice to touch.
Literally 'covered with fur/hair'. More descriptive and neutral.
クマの体は厚い毛で覆われている。
A bear's body is covered with thick fur.
Do not use 毛皮 (kegawa, 'fur/pelt') or 毛深い (kebukai, 'hairy') to refer to the furry fandom or characters. These words describe physical fur/hair and will cause confusion or sound unnatural.
ケモノ can mean 'beast' or 'animal' in general. In anime/game/fandom contexts, it usually implies anthropomorphic animals. If you need to be clear, use 獣人 or add context like 二足歩行のケモノ (bipedal kemono).