Translation guide
A small, temporary holding room in a police station for detainees. In Japanese, the term depends on the context—whether it's a temporary holding cell at a police station or a detention facility. The most common word is 留置場, but other terms exist for different nuances.
The standard term for a police cell where suspects are held for a short period, typically up to 72 hours before being transferred to a detention center.
The most common and general term for a police cell or holding cell in a police station. Used in legal and everyday contexts.
He was put in a police cell.
Life in a police cell is tough.
Synonym for 留置場, but slightly more formal or institutional. Often used in official contexts.
The suspect was transferred to a police cell.
Explicitly says 'police holding cell', useful for clarity when context isn't clear.
I spent a night in a police cell.
A cell in a detention house or prison, not necessarily at a police station. This is for longer-term holding after formal arrest.
Detention house or jail where suspects are held pending trial. Not a police station cell, but often translated as 'cell' in English.
He was put in a cell in the detention center.
A solitary cell or single cell, used in prisons or detention centers. Not specific to police stations.
Colloquial or old-fashioned term for jail or prison cell. Can sound rough or historical.
A general holding area or room in a police station, sometimes not a barred cell.
A protective custody room, often used for intoxicated or mentally disturbed individuals. Not a typical police cell for suspects.
The drunk was put in a holding cell.
留置場 (りゅうちじょう) is a temporary holding cell at a police station, typically for up to 72 hours. 拘置所 (こうちしょ) is a detention center for longer-term holding before trial. If you mean a police cell specifically, use 留置場.
Do not translate 'police cell' literally as 警察の細胞 (けいさつのさいぼう) or 警察の部屋 (けいさつのへや). These are incorrect and confusing.
独房に入れられるのは辛い。
Being put in a cell is tough.
牢屋に入れられた。
I was thrown in a cell.