Translation guide
The state of being without clothes. In Japanese, the most common word is 裸 (hadaka), but there are several nuanced terms depending on context, formality, and degree of exposure.
Describing the state of being completely unclothed, in everyday or neutral contexts.
The most common and general word for nakedness. Can be used for people or metaphorically (e.g., bare truth).
He ran naked.
The Emperor's New Clothes (lit. 'the naked king')
Emphasizes complete nudity. Often used in formal or descriptive contexts.
Taking photos while completely naked is illegal.
A childish or playful word for being stark naked. Often used with children.
The kids are running around the garden stark naked.
Describing being partly undressed or having certain body parts exposed.
Metaphorical use: exposed, defenseless, or without covering.
Used metaphorically to mean 'bare' or 'exposed', as in 'bare facts' or 'naked truth'.
the naked truth
to rise from nothing (lit. 'from naked single-mindedness')
Completely exposed, often in a metaphorical sense of having no secrets or possessions left.
Referring to nudity as a subject in art, photography, or formal discussion.
ヌード is specifically for artistic or photographic nudity. Using it to say 'I was naked' sounds unnatural. Use 裸 (はだか) instead.
I get naked when I take a bath.
裸 is the general term. 全裸 emphasizes complete nudity. 半裸 means half-naked (usually upper body). Choose based on how much clothing is removed.
He was doing yard work shirtless.
He was taken to the hospital with his lower body exposed after the accident.
All our information was laid bare to the enemy.
The sculpture depicts a beautiful nude body.