Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of a 'police checkup' is not expressed with a single direct equivalent. The appropriate term depends on the context: a background check, a vehicle inspection, a police checkpoint, or a medical checkup by police. This guide covers the most common ways to express these meanings naturally.
A background check was conducted when I got the job.
Official certificate of criminal record, issued by the police. Equivalent to a 'police certificate' or 'criminal record check'.
I need a criminal record check for emigration.
Similar to 身元調査, but more formal and often used in legal or official contexts.
The police conducted a background investigation.
A roadside inspection of a vehicle by police officers, checking for safety violations or illegal items.
Direct phrase meaning 'police vehicle inspection'. Natural and clear.
During the police vehicle inspection, they checked the tire tread.
Police checkpoint or inspection, often for drunk driving or document checks. Commonly used for roadside checks.
A health examination conducted by or for the police, such as for suspects in custody.
Literal 'health checkup by police'. Used when police arrange or conduct a medical exam.
I had a medical checkup by the police while in custody.
Post-mortem examination or inquest by police/coroner. Not a checkup for living persons, but sometimes confused.
The English phrase 'police checkup' does not have a single Japanese equivalent. Translating it literally as 警察チェックアップ would be unnatural and confusing. Always choose the term based on the specific situation.
昨夜、検問で免許証を見せた。
Last night, I showed my license at a police checkpoint.
Police questioning of a person on the street, often leading to a search. Not specifically a vehicle check, but can occur during one.
I was stopped and questioned by the police, and they checked my belongings.
警察が検視を行った。
The police conducted an inquest.