Translation guide
The English word "oral" covers several distinct meanings. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression depending on whether they mean spoken (vs. written), related to the mouth, or an oral examination.
Expressing that something is communicated by speaking, not in writing.
The most direct and common translation for 'oral' in the sense of spoken communication. Used in formal and everyday contexts.
Often used for oral statements, dictation, or formal oral proceedings. Slightly more formal than 口頭.
口述筆記をお願いします。
Please take dictation (write down what I say).
Literally 'say with the mouth', used in casual contexts to emphasize spoken rather than written or thought.
口で言うのは簡単だけど、実行するのは難しい。
It's easy to say it, but hard to actually do it.
Referring to the mouth as a body part, or things taken by mouth.
Medical/anatomical term for 'oral cavity'. Used in formal or technical contexts.
口腔ケアは大切です。
Oral care is important.
口腔外科で診てもらいました。
I was seen at the oral surgery department.
Means 'inside the mouth'. Common in everyday language for mouth-related issues.
Medical term meaning 'oral administration' (of medicine). Used in pharmaceutical contexts.
A test or exam conducted by speaking, often in academic or professional settings.
Standard term for an oral exam in schools or certification.
明日は英語の口頭試験があります。
I have an English oral exam tomorrow.
Used for higher-level oral exams, such as graduate school defenses or professional licensing.
博士論文の口述試験が来週です。
The oral defense for my doctoral dissertation is next week.
In legal contexts, 'oral contract' is often translated as 口頭契約 (こうとうけいやく), but note that Japanese law sometimes distinguishes between 口頭 (oral) and 書面 (written). For everyday use, 口約束 (くちやくそく, verbal promise) is more natural.
口約束だけでは不安です。
I'm uneasy with just a verbal promise.
Both mean 'oral', but 口頭 is broader and more common. 口述 often implies a formal statement or dictation, and is frequently used in legal or academic settings (e.g., 口述書, affidavit). For general 'spoken' meaning, stick with 口頭.
口内炎ができた。
I got a mouth ulcer.
口内を清潔に保つ。
Keep the inside of the mouth clean.
この薬は経口で服用します。
This medicine is taken orally.