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.
rocket launcher (military)
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.
The soldier aimed the rocket launcher.
Literally 'rocket cannon'. Used for larger, often vehicle-mounted or artillery-type rocket launchers.
The multiple rocket launcher fired a salvo.
Technical term for 'anti-tank rocket launcher'. Very specific, used in military documents.
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.
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.
The child is playing with a toy rocket launcher.
Means 'rocket-launching toy'. Can be used for any toy that launches a rocket.
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.
Bazookas often appear in movies, but in actual military they are called rocket launchers.
The anime protagonist defeated the enemy with a bazooka.