Translation guide
The English word 'mute' can refer to a person who cannot speak, the act of silencing something, or a device that dampens sound. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each meaning.
Describing someone who cannot speak, typically due to a physical condition.
A common, neutral phrase meaning 'unable to speak'. Literally 'mouth cannot function'.
He became mute after an accident.
A dated, potentially offensive term for a mute person. Avoid in modern, polite conversation.
This word is now considered discriminatory. Use '口がきけない' instead.
To turn off sound, such as muting a TV, phone, or microphone.
To reduce the volume or intensity of a sound, often with a physical object.
General verb meaning 'to weaken', used for sound, light, etc.
The curtain muted the outside noise.
Means 'to soften' or 'to moderate', often used for making sound less harsh.
Noun for a mute device in music, e.g., trumpet mute.
To make something less intense or noticeable, such as colors, feelings, or reactions.
The word '唖' is outdated and discriminatory. Use '口がきけない' to describe someone who cannot speak.
In the past, they were sometimes called 'oshi'.
Please mute your microphone during the meeting.
The wall muted the neighbor's voice.
Put a mute on the trumpet.