Translation guide
The English word 'plug' has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common ones for learners: an electrical plug, a stopper for a drain, inserting something into a hole, and promoting a product. It also includes less common uses like a spark plug and a fireplug.
The device at the end of a cord that connects to an electrical outlet.
The most common and direct translation for an electrical plug. Used for both the plug itself and the connector type.
このプラグは日本のコンセントに合わない。
This plug doesn't fit Japanese outlets.
Literally 'insertion', can refer to the plug part or the act of plugging in. More general than プラグ.
差し込みが緩んでいます。
The plug is loose.
A piece that blocks the drain in a sink, bathtub, etc.
General word for a stopper or plug for a drain, bottle, etc.
お風呂の栓を抜いてください。
Please pull out the bathtub plug.
Specifically a rubber stopper, commonly used in sinks.
流しのゴム栓がなくなった。
The sink's rubber plug is missing.
To put something into a hole or gap to block it or connect things.
To insert, plug in. Used for electrical plugs and general insertion.
コンセントにプラグを差し込んでください。
Please plug the cord into the outlet.
To stuff, fill, or plug a hole tightly. Often used for sealing gaps.
To block, close up, or plug an opening. More about blocking than inserting.
耳を塞いでください。
Please plug your ears.
To publicly promote a product, event, etc.
To advertise, promote. The most common verb for plugging a product.
彼は自分の新曲をラジオで宣伝した。
He plugged his new song on the radio.
To market, push, or plug something aggressively. Implies a sales pitch.
新製品を売り込むためにイベントを開いた。
They held an event to plug the new product.
A device in an engine that ignites fuel.
The standard term for spark plug. Often shortened to プラグ in context.
スパークプラグを交換する必要がある。
The spark plugs need to be replaced.
Literally 'ignition plug', a more technical term.
A street fixture for accessing water to fight fires.
Standard term for fire hydrant. Note: 'fireplug' is an older English term.
消火栓の前に駐車しないでください。
Don't park in front of the fireplug.
English 'plug' covers many concepts that use different words in Japanese. Always check the context: electrical (プラグ), drain (栓), promotion (宣伝する), etc. Using the wrong word can cause confusion.
I plugged the hole with a cloth.
点火プラグの状態を確認してください。
Check the condition of the spark plugs.