Translation guide
In Japanese, the term for a medical office depends on the type of practice and context. The most common general term is 診療所, but 医院 and クリニック are also widely used. For larger facilities, 病院 is used, though it often translates to 'hospital'.
A place where a doctor sees patients, typically smaller than a hospital.
A general term for a clinic or medical office where diagnosis and treatment are provided. Often used in official contexts.
近所の診療所に行った。
I went to the local medical office.
Commonly used for private medical practices, often with a single doctor. Frequently seen in names like 山田医院.
あの医院は評判がいい。
That medical office has a good reputation.
Loanword from English, often used for modern or specialized clinics. Conveys a slightly more casual or contemporary feel.
皮膚科のクリニックを探しています。
I'm looking for a dermatology clinic.
Referring to the office where a doctor practices, often in the context of an appointment or visit.
Literally 'doctor's clinic', used when specifying the doctor's own practice.
医者の診療所で待っている。
I'm waiting at the doctor's office.
Specifically the examination room within a medical office.
医院の診察室に入った。
I entered the doctor's examination room.
A larger medical institution with inpatient facilities, often translated as 'hospital' but sometimes referred to as a medical office in English.
Typically means 'hospital', but can be used when English speakers might say 'medical office' for a large clinic. Note: 病院 usually implies inpatient care.
大きな病院に行く必要がある。
I need to go to a large medical center.
診療所 is the formal term for a clinic, often used in legal or administrative contexts. 医院 is more common in everyday speech for a private practice. クリニック is a modern loanword that sounds slightly more fashionable or specialized.
The direct loanword オフィス is not used for medical offices. It refers to a business office. Using it for a doctor's office would be confusing.