Translation guide
The English word 'testicles' refers to the male reproductive glands. In Japanese, the most common and neutral term is 精巣 (seisou) in medical contexts, but in everyday language, 睾丸 (kougan) is widely understood. Colloquially, 金玉 (kintama) is very common, and there are other slang terms. This guide covers the main ways to refer to testicles in Japanese, from formal to casual.
To refer to testicles in a neutral, medical, or formal context.
The standard anatomical term, equivalent to 'testis' or 'testicle' in medical English. Used in biology, medicine, and formal writing.
The testicles are part of the male reproductive organs.
A common term for testicles, used in both medical and everyday contexts. Slightly more colloquial than 精巣 but still acceptable in formal situations.
I had a testicular examination.
To refer to testicles in informal, everyday conversation, often among friends or in humorous contexts.
Literally 'golden balls', this is the most common slang term for testicles. It is informal and can be used humorously or crudely.
The soccer ball hit my balls.
Short for 金玉, meaning 'balls'. Very casual and often used in set phrases.
A slang term reversing the syllables of 金玉 (kintama → tamakin). Used for humorous or euphemistic effect.
My balls are itchy.
To refer to testicles in a softer, more euphemistic way, often used with children or in polite company.
A descriptive phrase meaning 'the bag under the penis'. Used when explaining to children or avoiding direct terms.
Wash the bag under your penis gently.
A childish or euphemistic term for testicles, derived from 玉 (tama). It is also the word for 'occasionally', so context is important.
While 'balls' in English is a common slang term, directly translating it as ボール (booru) will not be understood as testicles. Use 金玉 or 玉 instead.
精巣 is strictly anatomical and used in medical contexts. 睾丸 is more common in everyday language and can be used in both formal and informal settings, though it is slightly more formal than slang terms.
My balls hurt.
たまたまを触らないで。
Don't touch your balls.