Translation guide
A weapon that launches rockets. In Japanese, the term depends on the type and context, from military shoulder-fired launchers to fictional or toy versions.
ロケットランチャー
rocket launcher (military)
おもちゃのロケットランチャー
rocket launcher (toy)
A portable weapon that fires a rocket-propelled projectile, often used against tanks or aircraft.
The most direct loanword from English. Widely understood for modern military rocket launchers.
兵士はロケットランチャーを構えた。
The soldier aimed the rocket launcher.
Literally 'rocket cannon'. Used for larger, often vehicle-mounted or artillery-type rocket launchers.
多連装ロケット砲が一斉射撃を行った。
The multiple rocket launcher fired a salvo.
Technical term for 'anti-tank rocket launcher'. Very specific, used in military documents.
この対戦車ロケット弾発射器は軽量で携行しやすい。
This anti-tank rocket launcher is lightweight and easy to carry.
A futuristic or fantasy weapon that launches rockets, often seen in games or anime.
Same loanword used for fictional weapons. Very common in video games and pop culture.
ゲームでロケットランチャーを拾った。
I picked up a rocket launcher in the game.
From 'bazooka'. Often used interchangeably with rocket launcher in casual or fictional contexts, though technically a bazooka is a specific type.
A toy that shoots foam rockets or a model replica.
Simply 'toy rocket launcher'. Clear and natural.
子供がおもちゃのロケットランチャーで遊んでいる。
The child is playing with a toy rocket launcher.
Means 'rocket-launching toy'. Can be used for any toy that launches a rocket.
このロケット発射おもちゃは安全です。
This rocket-launching toy is safe.
ロケットランチャー is the general term for any rocket launcher. バズーカ specifically refers to the historical bazooka, but is often used loosely in fiction. In military contexts, stick to ロケットランチャー or more specific terms.
映画ではよくバズーカが登場するが、実際の軍隊ではロケットランチャーと呼ぶ。
Bazookas often appear in movies, but in actual military they are called rocket launchers.
The anime protagonist defeated the enemy with a bazooka.