Translation guide
In Japanese, the most common and neutral word for nasal mucus is 鼻水 (hanamizu), literally 'nose water', referring to a runny nose. For dried or solid mucus, 鼻くそ (hanakuso) is a colloquial term, while 鼻汁 (hanajiru) is more formal or medical. The choice depends on consistency, register, and context.
The most common everyday meaning: the watery discharge from a runny nose.
The standard, neutral word for runny nasal mucus. Used by all ages in daily conversation.
A more formal or medical term for nasal discharge. Often used in clinical contexts or written descriptions.
Suctioning of nasal discharge is necessary.
The colloquial term for dried, solid bits of mucus in the nose.
A broader or clinical term for nasal mucus, often used in formal writing or medical situations.
鼻水 (hanamizu) is for runny, liquid mucus. 鼻くそ (hanakuso) is for dried, solid boogers. 鼻汁 (hanajiru) is the formal/medical term for nasal discharge, regardless of consistency. In casual conversation, 鼻水 is the safest choice for a runny nose, while 鼻くそ is used for boogers but can sound childish or crude.
English 'nasal mucus' sounds clinical; directly translating it as 鼻の粘液 (hana no nen'eki) is unnatural in Japanese. Use the context-appropriate term above.
鼻糞をほじる。
I pick my nose.
鼻水が止まらない。
The nasal mucus won't stop.