Translation guide
The nasolabial fold is the line or crease running from the side of the nose to the corner of the mouth. In Japanese, it is commonly referred to as ほうれい線 (hōrei-sen), a term used in everyday conversation, beauty contexts, and medical settings.
The standard, everyday word for the nasolabial fold, used in casual conversation, beauty, and health contexts.
The most common and natural term for nasolabial folds. Literally 'hōrei lines', it is widely understood and used in daily life, cosmetics, and medical discussions.
最近、ほうれい線が気になってきた。
Lately, I've become concerned about my nasolabial folds.
このクリームはほうれい線に効くらしい。
This cream is supposed to work on nasolabial folds.
The formal anatomical term used in medical or scientific contexts.
The formal anatomical term for the nasolabial fold, used in medical literature and by healthcare professionals. Less common in everyday speech.
鼻唇溝の深さは加齢とともに増加する。
The depth of the nasolabial fold increases with age.
When referring to the nasolabial fold as a natural part of facial expression, often in a neutral or positive light.
Literally 'laugh lines', this term can refer to nasolabial folds when they appear due to smiling. It carries a more positive or neutral connotation compared to ほうれい線, which is often associated with aging.
彼女の笑いじわが素敵だ。
Her laugh lines are charming.
ほうれい線 is the go-to word in beauty, skincare, and casual talk about aging. It is not overly clinical and is easily understood by all ages.
ほうれい線 is the everyday term, while 鼻唇溝 is the formal anatomical term. Use ほうれい線 in most situations; reserve 鼻唇溝 for medical or academic contexts.