Translation guide
The English word 'louse' refers to a small parasitic insect. In Japanese, the most common and general term is シラミ. There are also specific terms for different types of lice, such as head lice, body lice, and pubic lice. This guide covers the main Japanese words and phrases for talking about lice, from general terms to specific types and related expressions.
The speaker wants to refer to a louse in general, without specifying the type.
This is the most common and general word for 'louse'. It can refer to any type of louse that infests humans or animals. Often written in katakana, but can also be written as 虱 in kanji (rare).
My child got lice at school.
Please tell me how to get rid of lice.
This is the kanji for 'louse', but it is rarely used in modern Japanese. Katakana シラミ is much more common. You might encounter it in older texts or formal medical contexts.
There is a description of lice in old documents.
The speaker specifically means a louse that infests the human head.
Literally 'head louse'. This is the standard term used in schools, pharmacies, and medical settings.
Head lice eggs are attached to the hair.
The speaker means a louse that lives on the body or in clothing.
Literally 'clothing louse'. This refers to the body louse, which lives in clothing and feeds on the body.
Body lice tend to occur in unsanitary environments.
The speaker means a louse that infests the pubic area.
Literally 'hair louse', but specifically refers to pubic lice. This is the standard medical and everyday term.
Pubic lice are often transmitted through sexual contact.
The speaker wants to refer to the egg of a louse.
The general word for 'egg'. When context is clear (e.g., talking about lice), you can simply say シラミの卵 (louse eggs).
It's hard to remove louse eggs.
Loanword from English 'nit', used in medical or childcare contexts. It specifically means the egg case of a louse.
The speaker uses 'louse' as a slang term for a despicable person.
Japanese does not use 'louse' as an insult. Instead, use common Japanese insults like クズ (scum), 最低 (the worst), or 嫌な奴 (unpleasant guy).
That guy is a real louse.
He's a louse of a human being.
The English slang use of 'louse' to mean a contemptible person does not translate directly. Calling someone シラミ would just be confusing. Use standard Japanese insults instead.
In modern Japanese, lice-related terms are almost always written in katakana (シラミ, アタマジラミ, etc.). Kanji forms exist but are rare and may not be understood.
Remove nits with a special comb.