Translation guide
The English word "skin" refers to the outer covering of a person, animal, or fruit. In Japanese, the most common word is 肌 (はだ) for human skin, but different words are used for animal skin, leather, fruit peel, and related concepts. This guide helps you choose the right word based on what kind of skin you mean.
Referring to the skin of a person, especially in contexts of touch, health, beauty, or sensation.
The standard word for human skin. Used in everyday conversation about skin condition, touch, and beauty.
彼女は肌がきれいだ。
She has beautiful skin.
My skin is itchy from dryness.
More clinical or medical term for skin. Used in healthcare, biology, or formal contexts.
Please go to a dermatologist.
Skin regeneration takes time.
Referring to the skin of an animal, either on the animal or as a material.
General word for animal skin, hide, or leather. Can also mean peel of fruit. Context distinguishes.
This bag is made of cowhide.
A snake skin had been shed.
Specifically fur or pelt, skin with fur attached.
Specifically leather as a material (tanned animal skin). Often written with this kanji for leather goods.
Referring to the outer layer of a fruit or vegetable.
Used for the skin or peel of fruits and vegetables. Same word as animal skin, but context makes it clear.
Please peel the apple.
Can you eat grape skins?
Referring to a thin layer that forms on top of a liquid or soft substance.
Describing the quality, color, or type of someone's skin.
Used in compounds and phrases to describe skin type or complexion.
I have sensitive skin, so I can't use this cosmetic.
I admire fair skin.
English idioms using 'skin' and their natural Japanese equivalents.
Equivalent to 'to experience something firsthand' or 'to feel in one's own skin'. Literally 'to experience with one's body'.
I experienced poverty in my own skin.
To feel something deeply, as if it penetrates the skin. Often used for cold or emotions.
The cold pierces my skin.
肌 (はだ) is for human skin in everyday contexts. 皮膚 (ひふ) is the medical/biological term. 皮 (かわ) is for animal skin, leather, or fruit peel. Using 皮 for human skin sounds rough or animalistic, so avoid it unless you're talking about something like 'skin peeling' in a non-medical sense.
Saying 人間の皮 (にんげんのかわ) sounds like 'human hide' and is dehumanizing. Stick to 肌 or 皮膚 for people.
A fur coat is warm.
I bought leather shoes.
Means 'thick-skinned' in the sense of being shameless or brazen.
He really has a thick skin.