Translation guide
The English word 'nil' means nothing, zero, or nonexistent. In Japanese, this concept is expressed differently depending on context: scores, sports, technical values, or general absence.
The score was 2-nil.
Chances are nil.
Expressing a score of zero, no amount, or a null value in technical contexts.
The most common and versatile word for 'zero' in Japanese, used in scores, temperatures, counts, and technical contexts. Borrowed from English.
The score was 2 to nil.
The chances are practically nil.
The native Japanese word for 'zero'. More formal or literary than ゼロ. Often used in official contexts, mathematics, or when reading numbers digit by digit.
Means 'nothingness' or 'nonexistence'. Used in philosophical or abstract contexts, not for scores. Can imply 'nil' as a state of being void.
Stating that something does not exist or there is none of it.
The standard way to say 'there is no ...' or '... is nil'. Attach to a noun.
The evidence is nil.
Hope is absolutely nil.
A casual, standalone word meaning 'none' or 'without'. Often used in lists, notes, or informal speech.
Specifically saying 'nil' as a score in games like soccer or rugby.
The English word 'nil' is not used in Japanese. Always use ゼロ, 零, or a negative form like 〜がない depending on context.
The evidence is nil.
ゼロ is more common in everyday speech and modern contexts. 零 is formal and often used in legal, mathematical, or traditional settings. For sports scores, ゼロ is standard.
The temperature is zero degrees.
The result was nil.
Nothing comes from nil.
Problems: nil.
I have nil plans today.
The team was held to nil.