Translation guide
The English word 'nude' can refer to being naked, a color, or a state of undress. In Japanese, the most common way to say 'nude' is ヌード, a loanword from English, but native words like 裸 are also used depending on context.
Describing a person who is not wearing any clothes, or the state of being naked.
The most common and natural Japanese word for 'naked' or 'nude'. It can be used for people or metaphorically.
A loanword from English, often used in contexts like art, photography, or fashion. It can sound slightly more sophisticated or artistic than 裸.
She works as a nude model.
Emphasizes being completely naked, with absolutely no clothes on. Often used in formal or descriptive contexts.
He was arrested completely nude.
A colloquial and emphatic way to say 'stark naked'. Often used in casual speech.
The kids are running around stark naked.
Referring to a pale beige or skin-like color, often used in fashion, makeup, or design.
The most common way to refer to the color 'nude' in Japanese. Used in fashion and cosmetics.
This nude-colored lipstick is popular.
Literally 'skin color'. Traditionally used for a pale peach/beige, but can be considered outdated or insensitive as it assumes a single skin tone. Still commonly understood.
May be seen as assuming a default light skin tone. ヌードカラー or ベージュ are often preferred in modern contexts.
Describing someone who is not fully clothed, or in a state of undress, often in intimate or private settings.
The most natural way to say 'to get naked' or 'to undress completely'.
When I entered the room, she was nude.
Literally 'to take off clothes'. A more general phrase that can imply getting nude depending on context.
He took off his clothes and took a shower. (implying he was nude)
裸 (hadaka) is the native Japanese word for 'naked' and is used in everyday situations. ヌード (nūdo) is a loanword that often carries a nuance of art, photography, or fashion. For example, a 'nude photo' is usually ヌード写真, not 裸写真.
take nude photos
English sometimes uses 'nude' as a verb (e.g., 'to nude up'), but there is no direct equivalent in Japanese. Use phrases like 裸になる or 服を脱ぐ instead.
Wear nude stockings.