Translation guide
Refers to portable firearms carried by individuals, such as rifles, pistols, and submachine guns. In Japanese, the term is usually expressed with 小火器 (しょうかき) in technical or military contexts, but in everyday language, people often refer to specific types of guns.
The general category of small arms as used in military, law enforcement, or technical discussions.
The standard technical term for small arms. Used in military, police, and arms control contexts. Not common in everyday conversation.
When not in a technical context, English 'small arms' is often just 'guns' or specific types. Japanese speakers rarely use a direct equivalent.
The general word for 'gun'. Covers most small arms in casual or news contexts.
小火器 is a technical term. In everyday Japanese, people simply say 銃 (じゅう) or specify the type (拳銃, 小銃, etc.). Using 小火器 in a casual setting may sound overly formal or military-like.
If you're talking about 'small arms fire' in a military context, you might use 小火器射撃 (しょうかきしゃげき). But for most situations, just describe the specific weapon or use 銃.
小火器の密輸が問題になっている。
The smuggling of small arms has become a problem.
Literally 'small weapons'. Sometimes used in similar contexts, but less precise than 小火器. Can include non-firearm weapons.
We need to prevent the proliferation of small arms.
犯人は銃を持っていた。
The suspect was carrying a gun.
Specifically 'handgun' or 'pistol'. Use when the English context emphasizes handguns.
Police officers carry handguns.
Specifically 'rifle'. Use when the context is about rifles or long guns.
The soldier aimed his rifle.