Translation guide
The English word 'spray' covers several distinct actions and objects. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression depending on whether you mean spraying liquid, a spray can, mist, or a decorative plant spray.
Expressing the action of spraying liquid from a container or device.
General verb for spraying liquid by blowing or using a spray mechanism. Works for water, perfume, cleaning products, etc.
I sprayed water on the plants.
She sprays perfume on her wrist.
Loanword from English, very common for using a spray can or bottle. Casual and widely understood.
I sprayed hairspray on my hair.
Just spray this cleaner and wipe it off.
Technical or formal term for atomizing or spraying fine mist. Used in industrial, agricultural, or medical contexts.
Spray pesticide.
Referring to the container that sprays liquid.
Describing the fine liquid particles in the air, like sea spray or mist.
Splash or spray of water, such as from waves or a waterfall.
The spray from the waves hit my face.
Mist or fog. Can be used for very fine spray, like from a humidifier.
Literary or poetic term for water spray or mist, like from a waterfall.
Referring to a small branch or bunch of flowers used in decoration.
In floristry, スプレー refers to a spray of flowers, like a corsage or a decorative bunch.
Use spray roses in the bouquet.
A small branch or twig, sometimes used in arrangements. Not a direct translation but can describe the physical object.
While スプレー is common for spray cans and the action of spraying, it is not used for natural water spray like ocean mist. Use しぶき or 霧 for that.
sea spray
吹きかける is a native Japanese verb and can be used for any spraying action, including with the mouth. スプレーする specifically implies using a spray device. In daily conversation, スプレーする is very common for products.
Spray water with a mist sprayer.
Spray antiperspirant.
She sprayed perfume on her neck.
I need to buy a new spray bottle.
The spray from the waterfall felt refreshing.
噴霧器で消毒液をまく。
Spray disinfectant with a sprayer.
Mist is coming out of the humidifier.
The spray from the waterfall created a rainbow.
Decorate with a flowering spray.