Translation guide
The English term 'sodomy' can refer to anal intercourse or, in legal/religious contexts, various non-procreative sexual acts. This guide focuses on natural Japanese expressions for anal sex, as that is the most common modern meaning. Legal and historical uses are noted separately.
To refer to anal sex in a neutral or descriptive way, without strong vulgarity or formality.
The most common and neutral loanword for anal sex. Widely understood and used in everyday conversation, media, and educational contexts.
They discussed anal sex.
A more clinical or formal term, literally 'anal intercourse'. Used in medical, legal, or academic contexts.
Anal intercourse can increase the risk of sexually transmitted infections.
Short for 'anal sex', used colloquially. Can be slightly more casual or euphemistic than the full term.
It was my first time having anal.
To refer to anal sex using crude or slang expressions, often among close friends or in explicit contexts.
Very vulgar slang, literally 'asshole sex'. Used in explicit or derogatory contexts. Not appropriate in polite conversation.
Extremely crude; avoid in formal or respectful settings.
That video is nothing but asshole sex.
Euphemistic slang meaning 'to do it from behind', often implying anal sex depending on context. 'バック' comes from 'back'.
Can also refer to vaginal sex from behind; meaning depends on context.
To refer to 'sodomy' as a legal or religious category, often including anal or oral sex, or bestiality. This usage is rare in modern Japanese outside of historical or translated legal texts.
Direct loanword from English 'sodomy', used in discussions of Western law or religion. Not a native Japanese concept.
Sodomy laws have been abolished in many countries.
Historical term for male-male sexual relations, often associated with pre-modern Japan. Can be translated as 'sodomy' in historical contexts, but carries different cultural connotations.
Refers specifically to male homosexuality in a historical context, not a direct equivalent of the Western legal/religious concept.
The English word 'sodomy' carries heavy legal and religious baggage that does not translate directly into Japanese. In modern, everyday Japanese, use アナルセックス for anal sex. Using ソドミー may cause confusion or sound like you are referencing foreign law.
Slang terms like ケツ穴セックス are extremely vulgar and should only be used in very informal, private settings. When in doubt, stick with アナルセックス.
I did it from behind with my girlfriend yesterday.
During the Edo period, nanshoku was widespread among samurai.