Translation guide
How to express the action of connecting an electrical device to a power source or another device, or inserting something into a socket or port.
The most common meaning: to insert a plug into an electrical socket to supply power.
The standard way to say 'plug in' for electrical devices. Literally 'insert the plug'.
Please plug in the computer.
A more casual, everyday expression. Often used when the plug is implied.
Plug in the vacuum cleaner.
Means 'connect'. Used in technical contexts, but less natural for simply plugging into a wall outlet.
Connect the device to the power source.
For connecting peripherals or accessories, not necessarily for power.
General term for inserting something into a slot or port. Works for USB, headphones, etc.
Plug the USB drive into the computer.
Means 'connect'. Very common for linking devices, but less specific about the physical action of plugging.
Emphasizing that the device needs to be connected to power to function.
Literally 'turn on the power'. Often used when plugging in is the first step to powering on.
This implies both plugging in and turning on. If you only mean plugging in, use プラグを差し込む.
Plug in the TV. (and turn it on)
Another way to say 'put the plug into the outlet'. Slightly less common than 差し込む.
There is no single Japanese verb that exactly matches 'plug in'. Use phrases like プラグを差し込む or コンセントに差す. Avoid literal translations like プラグインする, which is only used as a noun for software add-ons.
Plug your phone into the charger.
Plug in the iron.