Translation guide
The English word 'pump' can be a noun (a device for moving fluids) or a verb (to move fluid, inflate, or move rhythmically). This guide covers common Japanese equivalents organized by meaning.
Referring to a machine that moves fluids, such as a water pump, fuel pump, or air pump.
The most common and general word for a pump. A loanword from English, used in everyday and technical contexts.
This pump is used to draw water.
Specifically a water pump for lifting water, often used in wells or drainage.
Draw water from the well with a water pump.
A hand or foot pump for inflating tires, balls, etc. Literally 'air inserter'.
The action of using a pump to transfer fluids, such as pumping water or air.
The standard way to say 'pump (liquid)' using the verb 汲む (to draw/pump water).
To fill with air using a pump.
The most natural way to say 'pump up' a tire or ball. Literally 'put in air'.
Describing a pumping motion, like a handle or during exercise.
General phrase for moving something up and down, like a pump handle.
To invest or supply a large amount of money or effort.
Formal phrase for 'pump money into'. Literally 'inject funds'.
A woman's high-heeled shoe without fastenings.
The standard Japanese word for this type of shoe. Note the plural form is used as singular.
The English word 'pumps' (shoes) is パンプス in Japanese, not ポンプ. ポンプ only refers to the mechanical device.
The fuel pump broke down.
自転車のタイヤに空気入れで空気を入れた。
I pumped up the bicycle tire with a pump.
I pumped water from the well.
Emphasizes sending or transferring fluid through pipes.
Pump oil through a pipeline.
To pump up or draw up (water). Often used without explicitly saying 'pump' if context is clear.
Pump up groundwater.
Please pump up the tires.
To inflate, but more general (balloons, etc.). Can be used with a pump or by mouth.
I pumped up the ball.
He pumped the handle up and down.
Loanword from English 'pumping', used in fitness contexts (e.g., pumping iron) or technical descriptions.
He's pumping iron at the gym.
The government pumped a large amount of money into the project.
Casual verb meaning to pour/invest money or effort into something.
He pumped all his money into the business.
She is wearing black pumps.