Translation guide
A type of parasitic or free-living nematode worm. In everyday English, 'roundworm' often refers to intestinal parasites in humans or pets. This guide covers how to talk about roundworms in Japanese, from medical terms to everyday conversation.
Referring to roundworms as parasites, especially in medical or veterinary contexts.
The standard medical and general term for parasitic roundworms, especially Ascaris species. Used for human and animal infections.
Roundworms are parasites that live in the intestines.
Scientific term for nematodes, the phylum that includes roundworms. Used in biology and parasitology. Broader than 回虫.
Nematodes include many parasitic species.
Talking about the disease or condition caused by roundworms.
Talking about roundworms in pets, especially when discussing deworming or symptoms.
Specifically the dog roundworm (Toxocara canis). Used in veterinary contexts.
Puppies are susceptible to roundworm infection.
Specifically the cat roundworm (Toxocara cati).
Deworming for roundworms. Common phrase at veterinary clinics.
Regular deworming for roundworms is necessary.
Referring to roundworms in soil, water, or as part of ecosystems, not as parasites.
The general biological term for nematodes, including free-living species. Used in science and agriculture.
Many nematodes live in the soil.
In casual conversation, English speakers might say 'roundworm' but often just say 'worm'. Japanese also uses a general term.
回虫 (kaichū) specifically refers to parasitic roundworms like Ascaris, while 線虫 (senchū) is the broader scientific category Nematoda. In everyday conversation, 回虫 is more common for infections; 線虫 is used in biology and agriculture.
If you suspect a roundworm infection, you can say 「回虫に感染したかもしれません」(I might have a roundworm infection). The doctor will understand 回虫.
Symptoms of roundworm infection include abdominal pain and diarrhea.
Cat roundworms can sometimes infect humans.
Children sometimes complain of stomach worms.