Translation guide
A guide to expressing 'genitals' in Japanese, covering medical terms, everyday words, euphemisms, and slang, with notes on politeness and context.
Referring to genitals in a clinical, educational, or formal context.
The standard medical term for genitals. Neutral and appropriate in formal writing, health contexts, and education.
Learn about the structure of the genitals.
Specifically 'reproductive organs'. Used in biology and medicine, slightly more technical than 性器.
Talking about genitals in daily life without being crude, e.g., with children, in public, or in polite conversation.
A common, polite euphemism for genitals. Used in media, parenting, and everyday speech when direct terms are avoided.
Referring specifically to male genitals in casual or vulgar contexts.
Childish/cute word for penis. Used with children or in very casual, humorous adult talk. Not vulgar.
Referring specifically to female genitals in casual or vulgar contexts.
Using crude or slang terms that can refer to genitals in general, often in insults or explicit talk.
While neutral, it can be used in explicit contexts as a direct term.
Words used when talking to young children about their genitals.
Many Japanese words for genitals are highly context-dependent. Using a clinical term in casual conversation can sound odd, while using slang in formal settings is extremely inappropriate. When in doubt, use 局部 or rephrase to avoid direct reference.
Go to the hospital for a problem with one's private parts.
性器 is the direct medical term. 局部 is a softer, everyday euphemism. 陰部 is slightly more formal than 局部 and often used in written instructions or health pamphlets. Choose based on formality and directness needed.
生殖器の病気についての講演。
A lecture on diseases of the reproductive organs.
It's important to keep your genitals clean.
Literally 'private parts'. Slightly more direct than 局部 but still polite. Common in health contexts.
I have itching in my genital area.
Boys have a penis.
Loanword from English. Used in medical, educational, or neutral adult contexts. Less clinical than 陰茎.
Worries about penis size.
Formal medical term for penis. Used in anatomy and clinical settings.
Look at an anatomical diagram of the penis.
Slang/euphemism meaning 'son', used humorously or indirectly to refer to the penis. Context-dependent.
Only used in very specific, often jocular contexts. Not a standard translation.
My 'son' is lively and it's a problem. (euphemism for erection)
Common vulgar slang for vagina. Very direct and crude. Used in explicit contexts.
My pussy gets wet.
Same as おまんこ but without the honorific prefix. Equally vulgar.
Show me your pussy.
Medical term for vagina. Used in clinical or educational settings.
How to clean the vagina.
Slang term likening the vulva to a crack or split. Often used in erotic contexts.
Her slit is clearly visible.
Expose one's genitals.
Euphemism meaning 'that place'. Very common indirect way to refer to genitals in casual conversation.
My 'down there' itches.
Polite/childish form of ちんちん. Used by parents when teaching children.
Take good care of your wee-wee.
Childish term for the crotch/genital area, used for both boys and girls. Equivalent to 'pee-pee' or 'front bottom'.
Let's wash your private parts.
In many situations, Japanese speakers avoid naming genitals directly. Phrases like あそこ (that place) or 下半身 (lower body) can be used to imply the area without explicit words.