Translation guide
In Japanese, the term for 'garbage can' varies based on context, such as the type of waste, location (indoor/outdoor), and formality. The most common general term is ごみ箱, but other words are used for public bins, sorting, and specific containers.
A container for household or office waste, typically small and kept indoors.
The most common and neutral word for a trash can or garbage can, used in homes and offices.
The garbage can is full.
I bought a new garbage can.
Literally 'waste basket', often used for paper waste or small bins in offices. Slightly more specific than ごみ箱.
I threw the paper in the wastebasket.
A container for waste in public places like streets, parks, or stations.
A large bin or can for collecting household waste before pickup, often kept outside.
A container designated for specific types of recyclable waste.
ごみ箱 is the general term for any trash can, indoor or outdoor. ごみ入れ is more formal and often used for public bins. ごみ容器 refers to larger containers, typically for outdoor collection.
I emptied the kitchen garbage can.
The trash bins on the street corner were removed.
I put a lid on the garbage container so crows wouldn't mess with it.
If you're unsure which word to use, ごみ箱 is safe and widely understood for any kind of garbage can. It's the default choice in everyday conversation.
公園のごみ箱はいつもきれいだ。
The garbage cans in the park are always clean.
ごみバケツに生ごみを入れた。
I put kitchen waste in the garbage bucket.
Sorted garbage cans are provided.