Translation guide
In Japanese, 'intercom' is commonly expressed with the loanword インターホン, but context matters. For apartment entry systems, use インターホン. For internal office or hospital paging, use 内線電話 or 館内放送. For wireless devices like baby monitors, トランシーバー may apply. The most natural choice depends on the specific device and situation.
The device at the entrance of an apartment building or house used to communicate with visitors before letting them in.
The standard loanword for an intercom system, especially the kind used in apartment buildings to buzz in visitors.
The intercom rang.
Please answer via the intercom.
A common brand-derived term for a door intercom with a camera. Often used interchangeably with インターホン in casual contexts.
The door intercom broke.
A system used within a building to make announcements or call specific people, often over speakers.
Refers to an in-building public address system, like those used in hospitals, department stores, or offices for announcements.
I was paged over the intercom.
Literally 'extension telephone', used for internal calls within an office. Can be used for intercom-like functions.
Please contact me via the intercom/extension.
A portable radio device used for short-range communication, like a walkie-talkie or baby monitor.
The standard term for a two-way radio transceiver, often used for walkie-talkies or wireless intercoms.
We kept in touch via walkie-talkie.
A general term for a wireless communication device, more technical than トランシーバー.
We communicated using a radio device.
A communication system built into helmets for riders to talk to each other or take calls.
Short for 'intercom', specifically used for helmet communication systems among motorcyclists or cyclists.
During touring, we talk via helmet intercom.
The English word 'intercom' covers many devices. Using インターホン for a walkie-talkie or office paging system can cause confusion. Choose the term based on the specific device and context.