Translation guide
The Chinese term 'qian' (钱) primarily means 'money' in English. This guide covers how to express the concept of money in Japanese, from general terms to specific contexts.
お金
money
To refer to money in a general sense, as a medium of exchange.
The most common and neutral word for 'money'. Polite prefix 'お' is standard.
Casual or blunt way to say 'money'. Often used in compounds or informal speech.
金がない。
I have no money. (casual)
Loanword from English, used in business or trendy contexts.
マネーゲーム
money game (speculation)
To refer to physical money, coins, or banknotes.
To refer to money as accumulated wealth or assets.
Means 'property' or 'fortune', including money and assets.
彼は大きな財産を持っている。
He has a large fortune.
Abstract 'wealth' or 'riches', often used in formal or literary contexts.
富を築く
to build wealth
To refer to money set aside for a specific purpose.
Means 'funds' or 'capital', used for business or projects.
事業の資金を集める。
To raise funds for a business.
Means 'cost' or 'expense', money needed for something.
生活費
living expenses
To refer to small amounts of money or loose change.
Means 'small change' or 'coins'.
小銭がたくさんある。
I have a lot of small change.
Specifically 'change' received after a transaction.
The Chinese word 'qian' (钱) is not used in Japanese. Use the appropriate Japanese term based on context.
釣り銭を忘れないでください。
Please don't forget your change.