Translation guide
The English word 'toothbrush' is a concrete noun referring to a small brush used for cleaning teeth. In Japanese, the most common and direct equivalent is 歯ブラシ (ha-burashi). This guide covers the standard term, related vocabulary, and usage notes for learners.
Referring to a regular toothbrush used for cleaning teeth.
The most common and natural word for 'toothbrush' in Japanese. It is a compound of 歯 (tooth) and ブラシ (brush). Used in everyday conversation and writing.
I bought a new toothbrush.
Where is the toothbrush?
Literally 'tooth polishing', this word can refer to the act of brushing teeth or, in context, the toothbrush itself. It is commonly used in phrases like 歯磨き粉 (toothpaste). When referring to the tool, 歯ブラシ is more precise.
Can be ambiguous; use 歯ブラシ when you specifically mean the brush.
Don't forget your toothbrush. (or 'Don't forget to brush your teeth.')
Referring to an electric or battery-powered toothbrush.
The standard term for an electric toothbrush. 電動 means 'electric-powered'.
An electric toothbrush cleans better.
Referring to the replaceable head of an electric toothbrush.
Literally 'replacement brush'. Used specifically for the detachable head of an electric toothbrush.
It's time to replace the toothbrush head.
While 歯磨き (hamigaki) can sometimes mean 'toothbrush', it primarily refers to the act of brushing teeth. To avoid confusion, use 歯ブラシ when you specifically mean the tool. For example, 'I need a new toothbrush' is 新しい歯ブラシが必要です, not 新しい歯磨きが必要です (which could be interpreted as needing to brush teeth anew).