Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of losing one's virginity is expressed through specific phrases that vary in formality and directness. The most common and neutral term is 初体験 (hatsu taiken), literally 'first experience', which is widely understood. More direct expressions exist but are often used in specific contexts.
To refer to the loss of virginity in a neutral, widely understood way.
Literally 'first experience'. This is the most common and neutral way to refer to losing one's virginity. It can be used in both casual and formal contexts without sounding vulgar.
He lost his virginity when he was in high school.
When was your first time?
Literally 'first experience'. A more roundabout way to refer to losing virginity, often used when being indirect or in more formal settings.
The first experience is something special.
To refer to losing virginity in a direct, often casual or slangy manner.
Literally 'to lose one's virginity'. This is a direct translation and is understood, but it can sound a bit clinical or like a direct translation from English. It's used, but less common than 初体験.
He lost his virginity at 20.
Literally 'to throw away one's virginity' (male). 童貞 refers specifically to male virginity. This phrase is somewhat slangy and direct, often used among young men.
Literally 'to lose one's virginity' (female). 処女 refers specifically to female virginity. This phrase is direct and can be used in both casual and more serious contexts.
To refer to losing virginity in a vague or euphemistic way, often in polite conversation.
Literally 'to have experience'. This is a very common euphemism for having had sexual experience, including losing virginity. It's indirect and polite.
He is still a virgin (lit. 'He doesn't have experience yet').
Literally 'to become an adult'. This can be used euphemistically to refer to losing one's virginity, especially in a romantic or coming-of-age context.
She became a woman that night.
初体験 is the most natural and common way to say 'loss of virginity' in Japanese. バージンを失う is a direct loan translation and can sound awkward or overly literal. Use 初体験 in most situations.
When was your first time?
When did you lose your virginity? (sounds translated)
童貞 (male virginity) and 処女 (female virginity) are gender-specific. Using the wrong term can cause confusion or offense. Stick to gender-neutral terms like 初体験 unless the context requires specificity.
He finally lost his virginity.
She lost her virginity at 18.