Translation guide
A substance used to reduce friction between surfaces. In Japanese, the most common word is 潤滑油 for machinery, while 潤滑剤 is a broader term. For personal use, ローション is standard.
lubricant (for machines)
lubricant (personal)
A substance like oil or grease used to reduce friction in engines, machines, or mechanical parts.
The most common term for lubricating oil used in machinery and engines.
Please add lubricant to the engine.
A broader term for any lubricating agent, including oils, greases, and solid lubricants.
This lubricant is resistant to high temperatures.
Specifically refers to grease, a semi-solid lubricant.
Please apply grease to the bearings.
A gel or liquid used to reduce friction during sexual activity or for personal comfort.
Something that makes a process or interaction smoother, often used metaphorically.
Can be used metaphorically to mean something that facilitates smooth operation, like 'social lubricant'.
Alcohol is a social lubricant.
Using 潤滑剤 in a personal context can sound overly clinical or awkward. Stick to ローション for everyday conversation about personal lubricant.
I received lubricating jelly from the doctor.