Translation guide
The concept of leasing, or renting something for a fixed period under a contract. In Japanese, this is expressed through specific verbs and nouns depending on what is being leased (real estate, equipment, vehicles, etc.) and the perspective (lessor or lessee).
To refer to the act or business of leasing in general, often in commercial contexts.
The most common term for leasing, especially for equipment, vehicles, and machinery. It is a loanword from English and is widely understood in business contexts.
I leased this car (under a lease contract).
The leasing fee is 10,000 yen per month.
A formal legal term for lease or rental agreement, often used in contracts and legal documents. It covers both real estate and movable property.
To conclude a lease agreement.
Often used for short-term rental (e.g., rental cars, DVDs). While 'leasing' implies a longer-term contract, 'rental' is sometimes used interchangeably in casual contexts.
To rent a server (often on a monthly basis, similar to leasing).
To express leasing a property as a tenant or offering it as a landlord.
The standard term for rental/leasing of real estate. Used in phrases like 賃貸マンション (rental apartment) or 賃貸物件 (rental property).
I'm looking for an apartment to rent/lease.
The common verb 'to borrow/rent' from the lessee's perspective. Used for apartments, houses, land, etc.
The verb 'to lend/rent out' from the lessor's perspective.
A specific financial arrangement where one sells a property and then leases it back. Used in real estate and corporate finance.
To raise funds through a leaseback arrangement.
To talk about leasing machinery, cars, or office equipment.
リース is typically for long-term, fixed-term contracts (often several years) for equipment or vehicles, with maintenance included. レンタル is for short-term, flexible rental (daily, weekly). 賃貸 is specifically for real estate. In casual speech, レンタル may be used loosely for some leasing situations, but リース is more precise for business leasing.
Lease a car (long-term contract) vs. rent a car (short-term)
For real estate, always use 賃貸 or the verbs 借りる/貸す. Using リース for an apartment sounds unnatural and overly business-like.
This building is for lease (office space).
都心にマンションを借りる。
To lease an apartment in the city center.
To lease out a vacant room.
Installment sales, sometimes confused with leasing but technically a purchase. Mentioned to clarify the difference.
This is not leasing; it's a purchase with installment payments. Use only when contrasting with leasing.
Explain the difference between leasing and installment sales.
Incorrect: 'lease an apartment' using リース → Correct: use 借りる or 賃貸