Translation guide
The English word 'mule' can refer to the animal, a type of shoe, or a person who transports goods. This guide covers how to express these meanings in Japanese.
Referring to the offspring of a male donkey and a female horse.
The standard Japanese word for the animal mule. It is a loanword from Spanish/Portuguese 'mula', commonly used in biology and everyday contexts.
ラバは馬とロバの交配種です。
A mule is a cross between a horse and a donkey.
Kanji form of ラバ, used in formal or written contexts. The reading is the same.
Mules have been used for carrying goods since ancient times.
Referring to a type of shoe that is backless, often a slipper or sandal.
The most common Japanese word for a mule shoe. It is a loanword from English 'mule' and specifically refers to the backless shoe style.
She wore new mules to the party.
Generally means 'slipper', but can sometimes be used for mule-style indoor shoes. Not specific to the fashion mule.
Referring to a person who carries goods, often illegally (drug mule) or as a porter.
Literally 'carrier', this is the standard term for a person who transports goods, especially in illegal contexts like drug smuggling. It can also refer to a legitimate courier.
The police arrested a drug mule.
Means 'smuggler'. More formal and specific to illegal import/export, not just carrying.
Loanword for 'porter', used for someone who carries luggage at hotels or stations. Not used for illegal activities.
ラバ (raba) is the animal, while ミュール (myūru) is the shoe. Using the wrong one can cause confusion.
wear a mule (animal) - incorrect
wear mules (shoes) - correct
室内ではスリッパを履いてください。
Please wear slippers indoors.
He worked as a smuggler.
ホテルのポーターが荷物を部屋まで運んでくれた。
The hotel porter carried my luggage to the room.