Translation guide
In Japanese, referring to a 'little child' depends on context, age, and formality. The most common and neutral term is 子供 (こども), but there are more specific or affectionate words depending on the situation.
The most common, neutral way to refer to a little child in everyday conversation.
The standard word for 'child' or 'little child'. Can be used for children of various ages, but often implies a young child. Safe in most contexts.
あの子供はとても元気だ。
That little child is very energetic.
子供たちが公園で遊んでいる。
The little children are playing in the park.
A shorter, slightly more literary or formal version of 子供. Often used in compounds or set phrases.
小さな子が泣いている。
A little child is crying.
Specifically referring to a very small child, often one who is still learning to walk or talk.
Refers to a toddler or infant, roughly ages 1-5. More formal than 子供, often used in official or educational contexts.
幼児向けの絵本を買った。
I bought a picture book for little children.
Means 'baby' or 'infant'. Very common for children under about 2 years old. Affectionate.
Literally 'small child'. A descriptive phrase that emphasizes the child's small size. Natural in conversation.
小さな子が手を振っている。
A little child is waving their hand.
Expressing endearment when talking about a little child, often in casual or family settings.
A cute, affectionate suffix added to 子. Often used by parents or close adults. Very casual and warm.
うちの子ちゃんが初めて歩いたよ。
Our little child walked for the first time!
A colloquial, slightly playful term for a small child. Can be used affectionately but might sound a bit rough or teasing depending on context.
ちびっ子たちが走り回っている。
The little kids are running around.
Referring to a little child in a respectful or formal setting, such as when talking about someone else's child.
Polite way to refer to someone else's child. The honorific お makes it respectful. Commonly used in formal conversation.
お子さんはおいくつですか。
How old is your little child?
Even more polite and formal than お子さん. Often used in customer service or very respectful situations.
While 小さい (ちいさい) means 'little', simply saying 小さい子供 is not wrong but can sound redundant. 子供 alone already implies a young child. Use 小さな子 for emphasis on small size.
子供 is the default, everyday word. 子 is shorter and appears in compounds (e.g., 男の子, 女の子) or literary contexts. Using 子 alone in casual speech can sound abrupt.
あの子は誰？
Who is that child?
赤ちゃんが寝ている。
The little child (baby) is sleeping.
お子様ランチはいかがですか。
Would you like a children's meal for your little child?