Translation guide
The most common Japanese word for 'pistol' is ピストル, a loanword from English. In formal or technical contexts, 拳銃 is used. Other terms like 短銃 or ハンドガン exist but are less common. This guide covers how to refer to pistols in Japanese, including usage notes and example sentences.
The learner wants to refer to a pistol in everyday conversation or writing.
The most common and widely understood word for 'pistol'. It is a loanword from English and used in casual and neutral contexts.
ピストル is the everyday word for 'pistol', while 拳銃 is more formal and often used in legal, police, or news contexts. In casual conversation, ピストル is preferred.
ピストルを見たことがありますか？
Have you ever seen a pistol?
拳銃の所持は法律で規制されている。
Possession of pistols is regulated by law.
Do not try to translate 'pistol' as 手銃 (てじゅう) or other made-up compounds. Stick to the established terms ピストル or 拳銃.
彼はピストルを抜いた。
He drew his pistol.
そのピストルには弾が込められていた。
The pistol was loaded.
彼はピストルを持っている。
He has a pistol.
そのピストルは本物ですか？
Is that pistol real?
A formal or technical term for 'pistol' or 'handgun'. Often used in police reports, news, and legal contexts.
警察官は拳銃を所持している。
Police officers carry pistols.
犯人は拳銃を発砲した。
The suspect fired a pistol.
A direct loanword from English 'handgun'. Used mainly in military, shooting sports, or by enthusiasts. Less common in everyday speech.
彼はハンドガンのコレクターだ。
He is a handgun collector.
Literally 'short gun', an older or more literary term for a handgun. Rarely used in modern conversation.
西部劇では短銃がよく使われる。
In Westerns, pistols are often used.