Translation guide
The English word "leg" maps to several distinct concepts in Japanese, depending on whether you mean the body part, a support, a stage of a journey, or an idiomatic expression. This guide breaks down the most common and useful translations for learners.
Referring to the limb used for standing, walking, or running.
The most common and general word for leg (and foot). Context usually clarifies whether it means leg or foot.
He has long legs.
I injured my leg.
Specifically refers to the leg (from hip to ankle), often used in anatomical or descriptive contexts. The kanji distinguishes it from 足 (foot).
I train my leg muscles.
Medical/anatomical term for lower limb.
A fracture of the lower limb.
Referring to the supporting part of a table, chair, etc.
Used for legs of furniture, tripods, etc. Same kanji as anatomical leg but context makes it clear.
The table leg broke.
This chair has three legs.
Referring to a segment of a trip, relay, or competition.
Commonly used for a leg of a relay race or a section of a journey.
I ran the first leg of the ekiden relay.
Refers to a leg of a journey or itinerary, often used in travel contexts.
Loanword from English, used in some sports or technical contexts (e.g., sailing, aviation).
Expressing that something is very expensive.
Idiom meaning 'so expensive your eyes pop out'. Natural equivalent to 'cost an arm and a leg'.
That bag cost an arm and a leg.
Means 'exorbitant price'. Less idiomatic but clear.
It cost an arm and a leg.
To tease or joke with someone.
Telling someone to hurry.
Wishing someone good luck, especially before a performance.
To have no valid argument or defense.
English idioms like 'pull someone's leg' or 'break a leg' have no direct Japanese equivalent using the word for leg. Always use the natural Japanese expressions provided.
Both read あし. 足 generally means foot/leg, while 脚 specifically means leg (thigh to ankle). In daily conversation, 足 is more common for the whole lower limb. Use 脚 when you need to be precise, such as in anatomy or describing leg shape.
My leg hurts.
The table has four legs.
He ran the final leg of the relay.
旅の最後の行程は船だった。
The last leg of the trip was by boat.
The second leg of the race.