Translation guide
The physical structure of a person. Japanese has several words for 'human body', each with different nuances, formality, and contexts.
Referring to the physical body of a person in a neutral, everyday context.
The most common and versatile word for 'body'. Used in daily conversation, health contexts, and general descriptions. Can refer to both living and dead bodies, but primarily living.
I exercise every day to strengthen my body.
Similar to 体 but slightly more formal or literary. Often used in medical, health, or official contexts. Can emphasize the physical aspect of the body.
Refers to the physical body, often in contrast to the mind or spirit. Used in philosophical, spiritual, or literary contexts. Can sound dramatic or technical.
Referring to the human body in a scientific, medical, or anatomical context.
Emphasizing the physical aspect in contrast to mental or spiritual aspects.
Referring to a corpse or cadaver.
The most direct term for a dead body. Used in crime reports, news, and general contexts. Can be blunt.
体 (からだ) is the default word for body in daily life. 身体 (しんたい) is more formal and often used in medical or official contexts. 肉体 (にくたい) emphasizes the physical flesh, often in contrast to mind or spirit.
人体 (じんたい) sounds scientific and is not used for personal body conditions. Saying 人体が痛い sounds unnatural; use 体が痛い instead.
My body feels heavy because of a cold.
健康診断で身体の状態をチェックした。
I checked my physical condition at the health checkup.
精神と肉体のバランスが大切だ。
The balance between mind and body is important.
The standard term for 'human body' in scientific, medical, and technical contexts. Used in anatomy, biology, and medicine.
I am learning about the structure of the human body.
This medicine is harmful to the human body.
Also used in medical contexts, but more personal than 人体. 人体 is objective and scientific, while 身体 can refer to an individual's body.
physically disabled person
Explicitly contrasts with mind or spirit. Common in discussions of dualism, sports, or physical desires.
Mental fatigue is greater than physical fatigue.
Can be used in contrast to mind, but less emphatic than 肉体. Often in everyday expressions.
I want to be healthy in both mind and body.
A dead body was found in the park.
A more respectful term for a dead body, often used in formal contexts, funerals, or when referring to the deceased with dignity.
The remains were returned to the family.
A poetic or literary term for a dead body, often used in emotional or respectful contexts. Implies mourning.
His remains were taken to his hometown.