Translation guide
The English word "medicine" covers several distinct concepts: the field of medical science, medication or drugs, and sometimes traditional or alternative practices. Japanese uses different words for each.
Referring to substances taken to treat or prevent illness, such as pills, syrups, or injections.
The most common and general word for medicine or drugs. Can refer to both prescription and over-the-counter medication.
Referring to the study and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing disease.
The standard term for medical science as an academic discipline or profession.
Referring to non-Western or traditional healing practices, such as herbal remedies.
When talking about the academic field or profession, use 医学 (いがく). 薬 (くすり) only means medication or drugs. Saying 「薬を勉強しています」 would mean 'studying drugs' (like pharmacology), not 'studying medicine' as a doctor.
薬 (くすり) is the go-to word for any kind of medicine you take. You can combine it with body parts or conditions: 頭痛薬 (ずつうやく) headache medicine, 胃薬 (いぐすり) stomach medicine.
Please take this medicine three times a day.
I'm going to buy some cold medicine.
A more formal term for pharmaceutical products or medicinal drugs, often used in official or medical contexts.
This medicine requires a prescription.
A technical term for medicinal agents or chemicals, used mainly in pharmaceutical or scientific contexts.
Development of new medicines is progressing.
He is studying medicine.
Advances in medicine are remarkable.
Refers to medical care or healthcare practice, often emphasizing the practical application of medicine.
This area has good medical care.
Specifically refers to traditional Chinese/Japanese herbal medicine. Often used for holistic treatments.
It is said that herbal medicine has fewer side effects.
Folk medicine or home remedies, often passed down through generations.
This folk medicine is said to work for coughs.