Translation guide
In Japanese, expressing 'portable' depends on what is being carried and how. Common words include 携帯 (keitai) for electronic devices, 持ち運び (mochihakobi) for general portability, and ポータブル (pōtaburu) as a loanword. The choice varies by context.
Describing something that can be easily carried or moved, like a device, tool, or object.
A versatile phrase meaning 'can be carried'. Used for a wide range of items.
このスピーカーは持ち運びできます。
This speaker is portable.
Means 'for carrying/portable use'. Often used for items designed to be carried, like ashtrays or tools.
携帯用灰皿を持っていますか？
Do you have a portable ashtray?
Loanword from English. Common for electronics and tech gadgets, but can sound slightly technical.
ポータブル電源を買いました。
I bought a portable power station.
Specifically for gadgets like phones, game consoles, or music players that are designed to be carried.
Short for 携帯電話 (mobile phone) or used as a prefix for portable electronics. Very common.
携帯ゲーム機が欲しい。
I want a portable game console.
Loanword 'mobile', often used for internet-connected devices or apps.
Referring to software that can run without installation, or data that can be easily transferred.
Directly means 'portable version', used for software.
このアプリのポータブル版はありますか？
Is there a portable version of this app?
Literally 'data that can be carried', used for portable data formats.
持ち運び可能なデータ形式で保存してください。
Please save it in a portable data format.
Describing movable toilets, sinks, or similar facilities.
Means 'simple/portable toilet'. Common for outdoor events or construction sites.
イベント会場に簡易トイレが設置された。
Portable toilets were set up at the event venue.
Literally 'movable-type toilet', more formal.
移動式トイレをレンタルしました。
We rented a portable toilet.
携帯 (keitai) is strongly associated with mobile phones and small electronics. ポータブル (pōtaburu) is a direct loanword often used for tech products. 持ち運び (mochihakobi) is the most general and natural for describing the act of carrying something.
Directly translating 'portable' as ポータブル may sound unnatural outside of tech contexts. Use 持ち運びできる or 携帯用 for everyday items.
モバイルバッテリーを持っていますか？
Do you have a portable charger?