Translation guide
The animal 'horse' is most commonly 馬 (うま). For horse-related idioms, racing, or metaphorical uses, different expressions apply.
Referring to the animal itself, in general or specific contexts.
The standard word for 'horse'. Used in all contexts.
That horse is very fast.
Have you ever ridden a horse?
Polite or child-friendly form, often used when speaking to children or in gentle contexts.
Let's give the horse a carrot.
Formal or literary term for 'horse', often used in historical or official contexts.
Supply horses to the army.
Referring to the sport or activity of horse racing.
Referring to horse meat as food.
The standard term for horse meat, commonly eaten in some regions of Japan.
Horse meat sashimi is a delicacy.
Euphemistic term for horse meat, literally 'cherry blossom meat', due to its pink color.
This restaurant is famous for its horse meat hot pot.
Using 'horse' in common idioms or proverbs.
To get along well with someone; literally 'horses match', implying compatibility.
I get along well with him.
To be completely indifferent to what others say; literally 'horse ear, east wind'.
My advice was like water off a duck's back to him.
Preaching to deaf ears; literally 'a Buddhist prayer in a horse's ear'.
Warning him is like talking to a brick wall.
To reveal one's true nature; literally 'expose the horse's legs' (from stage costume).
He finally showed his true colors.
Words where 'horse' is part of a compound noun.
Horse-drawn carriage.
We rode in a horse-drawn carriage at the tourist spot.
Horsepower (unit of power).
This engine has 200 horsepower.
Horsemanship, equestrianism.
She is an equestrian athlete.
Stable (for horses).
Clean the stable.
In English, 'horse' is sometimes used informally for 'horsepower' (e.g., 'This car has 300 horses'). In Japanese, always use 馬力 (ばりき) for the unit; 馬 alone does not carry this meaning.
When speaking to or about children, お馬 (おうま) is common and sounds gentle. Using 馬 (うま) is not impolite, but お馬 adds warmth.