Translation guide
The English word 'undercoat' can refer to a layer of paint or primer, or to the soft, dense fur beneath an animal's outer coat. This guide covers both meanings, with a focus on natural Japanese expressions for each context.
A layer of paint or primer applied before the topcoat, often for protection or adhesion.
The most common and direct term for an undercoat in painting, priming, or coating contexts. Used as a noun or suru-verb.
Please apply the undercoat first.
This paint is suitable for undercoating.
Loanword from English 'primer', commonly used in DIY, automotive, and industrial contexts. Often implies a specific type of undercoat for adhesion or rust prevention.
Apply primer to metal surfaces.
Direct loanword from English 'undercoat'. Used in some technical or fashion contexts, but less common than 下塗り or プライマー for painting.
After applying the undercoat, apply the topcoat.
The soft, dense fur beneath an animal's outer guard hairs, providing insulation.
The standard biological term for underfur or undercoat of animals. Used in zoology, pet care, and textiles.
This breed has a dense undercoat.
During shedding season, the undercoat comes out in large amounts.
Literally 'cotton fur', often used for the soft, downy undercoat of young animals or birds. Can also refer to down feathers.
下塗り is the general Japanese term for any undercoat layer. プライマー specifically refers to a primer product, often with chemical bonding or anti-corrosion properties. アンダーコート is a direct loanword and may be understood but sounds less natural in most contexts.
You can say 下塗りをする or use the suru-verb 下塗りする. Example: 壁を下塗りする (to undercoat the wall).
Also used for animal fur, especially in pet grooming or breed descriptions. Recognizable but less technical than 下毛.
Pomeranians have a fluffy undercoat.
ひよこは綿毛に覆われている。
Chicks are covered in down.