Translation guide
The English word "stool" has two main meanings: a backless seat and a piece of feces. The seat meaning is straightforward, while the feces meaning is primarily medical or formal. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese word for each context.
A simple seat without a back or arms, often used at bars, counters, or in kitchens.
The most direct loanword for a backless stool, commonly used in modern contexts like bars, cafes, and homes.
A piece of solid waste from the bowels, used in medical or formal contexts.
In casual conversation, directly translating 'stool' to 便 or 大便 can sound overly clinical. Use うんち with children or close friends, or rephrase the sentence to avoid the word entirely (e.g., 'お腹の調子が悪い' for 'I have loose stools').
キッチンにスツールを置いた。
I put a stool in the kitchen.
Literally 'round chair', this refers to a simple, often backless stool, typically with a round seat. Common in traditional or casual settings.
居酒屋のカウンターに丸椅子が並んでいる。
Round stools are lined up at the izakaya counter.
A generic term for a seat or stool, often implying something simple to sit on. Can be used for benches or stools, but less specific than スツール.
庭に木の腰掛けを作った。
I made a wooden stool in the garden.
I'm concerned about the color of my stool.
便検査をしてください。
Please do a stool test.
Literally 'large excrement', this is a more direct term for feces, often used in medical or descriptive contexts. Slightly more blunt than 便.
大便の回数が増えた。
The frequency of stools has increased.
A childish or informal word for poop. Not appropriate in formal or medical settings, but common in everyday talk with children.
子供が「うんちが出た」と言った。
The child said, 'I did a poop.'