Translation guide
The act of paying money for goods, services, or obligations. Japanese has several words for 'payment' depending on context: general payments, bills, shopping, online transactions, and formal settlements.
The most common, all-purpose word for payment in everyday situations.
The standard noun for 'payment'. Used for bills, invoices, purchases, and general financial transactions. Can be used in both casual and formal settings.
I'll pay by credit card, please.
The verb form 'to pay'. Used for paying money, bills, or debts.
When you want to ask for the bill or say you'll pay in a casual setting.
When talking about payment methods or completing a transaction online.
For regular payments like utilities, rent, or subscription services.
Used in business contexts, contracts, or official transactions.
Specifically paying with physical money.
支払い is the general word for payment in daily life (bills, shopping). 決済 is used for financial settlement, especially in business or online transactions (credit card settlement, electronic payment). Use 支払い for everyday situations and 決済 for technical/financial contexts.
rent payment
Payment is due by the end of the month.
The rent payment was late.
明日までに料金を支払わなければならない。
I have to pay the fee by tomorrow.
Polite way to refer to the bill or check, especially at restaurants. Often used when asking for the bill.
Check, please.
More casual or traditional term for the bill, often used among friends or in older establishments.
I'll pick up the tab.
Refers to settlement or clearing of a payment, especially in e-commerce, credit card transactions, or digital payments.
Online payment has been completed.
Is credit card payment secure?
Means 'payment method'. Used when selecting how to pay (credit card, bank transfer, etc.).
Please select a payment method.
Automatic debit or direct withdrawal from a bank account. Common for recurring bills.
The electricity bill is paid by automatic debit.
Monthly payment plan. Often used for subscriptions or installment payments.
This service is paid monthly.
Refers to the receipt of money, i.e., payment received. Often used in business emails or accounting.
We have confirmed your payment.
Payment of taxes, fees, or official dues. Formal and often used in government or legal contexts.
The deadline for tax payment is tomorrow.
Cash payment. Often seen on signs or when choosing payment method.
Cash only.
Verb phrase: to pay in cash.
Can I pay in cash?
credit card payment (settlement)
The English loanword ペイメント is not commonly used in natural Japanese. Stick to native terms like 支払い or 決済.
I made the payment online.
We accept various payment methods.