Translation guide
The English word 'genitalia' refers to the external reproductive organs. In Japanese, the most common and neutral term is 性器 (seiki), but there are many other words that vary by formality, context, and gender. This guide covers the most useful terms for learners, from clinical to slang.
The standard, formal, or medical term for genitalia, suitable for most contexts.
The most direct and neutral translation. Used in medical, educational, and formal contexts. Can refer to both male and female genitalia.
Learn about the structure of the genitalia.
Literally 'reproductive organs'. More technical and often used in biology or medical contexts. Can include internal organs.
Prevent diseases of the reproductive organs.
Common words for male genitalia, from polite to casual.
Specifically male genitalia. Neutral and clinical.
Keep the male genitalia clean.
Penis (clinical term). Used in medical contexts.
Slang for penis. Very casual, often used among close friends or in vulgar contexts. Not appropriate in formal settings.
Avoid using this in polite conversation; it can be considered crude.
Common words for female genitalia, from polite to casual.
Specifically female genitalia. Neutral and clinical.
Consult about female genital health.
Vagina (clinical term). Used in medical contexts.
Slang for vagina. Very casual and vulgar. Not appropriate in polite or formal settings.
Extremely crude; avoid unless you are very familiar with the listener and the context is intentionally vulgar.
Softer, indirect, or childish words for genitalia, often used with children or in polite avoidance.
Childish word for penis. Commonly used by/with young children. Considered cute and innocent.
Wash your wee-wee, okay?
Euphemism for female genitalia, literally 'crotch'. Used by women or in polite contexts. Can also refer to the general groin area.
Go to the gynecologist for a problem down there.
Literally 'important place'. A very vague euphemism for genitalia, used when avoiding direct terms. Context-dependent.
I hit my private parts and it hurts.
Terms specifically for the external female genitalia.
Medical term for the vulva or external female genitalia. Neutral and precise.
I'm concerned about itching in the vulvar area.
In many everyday situations, directly saying 'genitalia' (性器) can sound overly clinical or blunt. Japanese often uses euphemisms or vague expressions like あそこ (there) or 下 (down there) when the context is clear. Using the clinical term is fine in medical or educational settings, but in casual or polite conversation, softer terms are preferred.
For male genitalia, 男性器 is the standard neutral term, while 陰茎 is specifically the penis. For female genitalia, 女性器 is the neutral term, while 膣 is the vagina. Slang terms like ちんこ and まんこ are very vulgar and should be used with extreme caution.
陰茎のサイズは個人差がある。
Penis size varies from person to person.
ちんこがかゆい。
My dick itches.
Treat vaginal inflammation.
まんこが痛い。
My pussy hurts.