Translation guide
In Japanese, the term 'transsexual' is often expressed using loanwords or descriptive phrases. The most common and neutral term is トランスセクシュアル, but usage can vary by context and generation. This guide covers how to refer to transsexual people, identity, and related concepts in Japanese.
transgender (broader, more common)
Often used as an umbrella term; more common in contemporary discourse.
The learner wants to talk about someone who is transsexual, either as an identity or in a descriptive way.
Direct loanword from English. Neutral but may be perceived as medical or outdated by some. Often used in formal or clinical contexts.
She came out as transsexual.
Descriptive phrase meaning 'a person who has undergone sex reassignment surgery'. Used when the surgical aspect is relevant. Can be wordy.
A wasei-eigo term historically used for trans women, especially in entertainment. Now often considered outdated or derogatory by many. Avoid unless quoting or in specific contexts.
Can be offensive; use with extreme care or avoid entirely.
The learner wants to describe someone's transsexual identity, e.g., 'She is transsexual.'
Simple copula sentence. Use with caution as it can sound blunt. Often softened in conversation.
He is transsexual.
More common and softer than トランスセクシュアル. Often used in self-introduction or casual talk.
I am transgender.
Literally 'has gender identity disorder'. This is a medical/legal term (GID) and can be stigmatizing. Use only in medical or legal contexts.
May be considered pathologizing; avoid in everyday conversation.
The learner wants to talk about the medical process of transitioning.
トランスセクシュアル specifically refers to people who have undergone or desire medical transition, while トランスジェンダー is an umbrella term that includes anyone whose gender identity differs from their assigned sex. In many contexts, トランスジェンダー is preferred as it is less clinical and more inclusive.
In the transgender community, some people don't use the word transsexual.
Terms like オカマ (okama) or ニューハーフ (newhalf) can be highly offensive. オカマ is a slur for effeminate gay men or trans women, and ニューハーフ is often considered derogatory. Stick to トランスジェンダー or トランスセクシュアル unless you are certain of the context.
In Japanese, pronouns are often omitted. When referring to a trans person, use their preferred name and avoid unnecessary gendered language. If you must use a pronoun, その人 (that person) or their name + さん is safe. Some trans people may use 彼 or 彼女 according to their identity, but it's best to follow their lead.
Broader term that includes transsexual people. More commonly used in everyday conversation and LGBTQ+ communities. Often preferred for its inclusivity.
Discuss the rights of transgender people.
People who have undergone sex reassignment surgery can legally change their gender.
He appears on TV as a 'newhalf'.
Support is needed for people with gender identity disorder.
Older term for sex change surgery. Still understood but being replaced by 性別適合手術.
Sex change surgery is expensive.
Loanword for 'transition'. Used in LGBTQ+ communities to refer to the overall process, not just surgery.
Transition takes time.