Translation guide
The English word 'mustache' refers to facial hair on the upper lip. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 口ひげ, but there are also specific terms for different styles and related expressions. This guide covers how to talk about mustaches naturally in Japanese.
Referring to a mustache in general, describing someone's appearance, or talking about growing/shaving a mustache.
The standard, neutral word for 'mustache'. Literally 'mouth hair'.
He has a mustache.
I forgot to shave my mustache.
General word for facial hair (beard, mustache, stubble). Context usually clarifies if it's specifically a mustache. Often used in compounds.
Can refer to any facial hair, so it may be ambiguous without context.
He's growing a beard/mustache.
Refers to a 'handlebar mustache', styled after Kaiser Wilhelm II. Used for specific, curled styles.
His handlebar mustache is impressive.
Talking about the shape, thickness, or style of a mustache.
Many mustache styles are described by adding a descriptor before ひげ. Common patterns include 細い口ひげ (thin mustache), 太い口ひげ (thick mustache), ちょびひげ (small, often comical mustache).
He has a thin mustache.
That actor's trademark is his little mustache.
Literally 'figure-eight mustache', referring to a mustache that droops down on both sides, resembling the character 八.
Using mustache to describe someone's look, often in a humorous or distinctive way.
A slightly formal or literary way to say 'to grow a mustache', implying careful cultivation.
He sports a splendid mustache.
Simply describe the mustache with adjectives like 似合う (suits), 変 (strange), 立派 (splendid).
That mustache suits you.
口ひげ specifically means mustache. ひげ is a broader term for facial hair, including beard (あごひげ) and stubble. Use 口ひげ when you need to be precise.
To say someone 'has a mustache', use 口ひげを生やしている (literally 'is growing a mustache') rather than a direct translation of 'has'. 口ひげがある is grammatically correct but less natural for describing a person's appearance.
He shaved off his mustache.
I'm thinking of growing a mustache.
彼の八字ひげは時代劇の悪役みたいだ。
His drooping mustache makes him look like a villain from a period drama.
People with thick mustaches look scary.