Translation guide
Japanese words for nail polish, including common terms and related vocabulary for nail care.
The cosmetic product applied to fingernails or toenails for color or protection.
The most common word for nail polish in Japanese. Originally from 'manicure', but now refers specifically to the polish itself.
新しいマニキュアを買った。
I bought a new nail polish.
このマニキュアは速乾性です。
This nail polish is quick-drying.
A direct loanword from English 'nail polish'. Used especially in beauty contexts or product names.
ネイルポリッシュを塗るのが好きです。
I like applying nail polish.
Literally 'nail color', often used interchangeably with nail polish, especially in fashion or product descriptions.
春の新作ネイルカラーが発売された。
The new spring nail colors have been released.
A traditional Japanese term for nail polish, literally 'nail rouge'. Rarely used in modern conversation; mostly found in historical or literary contexts.
昔は爪紅を使っていた。
In the past, they used nail rouge.
The action of putting on nail polish.
The standard phrase for 'to apply nail polish'. The verb 塗る (ぬる) means 'to paint' or 'to apply'.
週末にマニキュアを塗る。
I apply nail polish on weekends.
上手にマニキュアを塗れますか？
Can you apply nail polish well?
A broader phrase meaning 'to do one's nails', which includes applying polish, nail art, etc.
今日はネイルをしに行く。
I'm going to get my nails done today.
The liquid used to remove nail polish.
The standard Japanese word for nail polish remover. Literally 'light-removing liquid'.
除光液でマニキュアを落とす。
I remove nail polish with remover.
Short for 'nail polish remover'. Common in casual speech and product labels.
マニキュア specifically means nail polish, while ネイル is a broader term for nails in general, including nail art and care. ネイルサロン is a nail salon.
ネイルサロンでマニキュアを塗ってもらった。
I had nail polish applied at a nail salon.
アセトンフリーのリムーバーを探しています。
I'm looking for an acetone-free remover.