Translation guide
The state of being a mother, or the period during and shortly after pregnancy. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through specific nouns and compounds rather than a single direct equivalent.
maternity leave
Most common equivalent in workplace contexts.
Referring to motherhood as a general concept, identity, or life stage.
Refers to the innate qualities or instinct of motherhood, often used in psychological or biological contexts.
Maternity is said to be a woman's instinct.
A more literal and conversational way to express the state of being a mother.
Being a mother is tough, but it's also rewarding.
Referring to the time when a woman is pregnant or has just given birth, often in medical or administrative contexts.
Refers to childbirth itself, but can be used in compounds to indicate the maternity period.
Take maternity leave.
Abbreviation for 産前産後休暇 (maternity leave). Commonly used in workplace contexts.
She's going on maternity leave next month.
Loanword from English, used in compounds like マタニティドレス (maternity dress) or マタニティマーク (maternity badge).
Attach a maternity badge to your bag.
Referring to maternity wear or products designed for expectant mothers.
Referring to a medical facility specializing in childbirth.
A clinic or small hospital specializing in obstetrics. Commonly used for private maternity clinics.
I plan to give birth at the local maternity clinic.
Obstetrics and gynecology department; often used to refer to the maternity ward in a general hospital.
Make an appointment at the maternity ward.
The English word 'maternity' is often used as an adjective (e.g., maternity leave, maternity dress). In Japanese, different nouns and compounds are used depending on the context. There is no single word that covers all uses.