Translation guide
Japanese words for undergarments, organized by type and context. Includes common terms for underwear, undershirts, and traditional Japanese undergarments.
The most common, everyday word for underwear (panties, briefs, boxers, etc.)
General term for underwear. Can refer to both tops and bottoms, but often implies underpants in context.
新しい下着を買った。
I bought new underwear.
下着を着替える。
I change my underwear.
Very common loanword for underpants, briefs, or panties. Can also mean trousers in some contexts, but usually clear from situation.
パンツをはく。
I put on underpants.
そのパンツ、かわいいね。
Those panties are cute.
A garment worn under a shirt, like a T-shirt, tank top, or camisole
Undershirt or undergarment worn directly on the skin. Often refers to a light inner layer for warmth or sweat absorption.
寒いので肌着を着た。
I wore an undershirt because it's cold.
肌着は綿がいい。
Cotton is good for undershirts.
Short for 'inner wear', used for inner layers like camisoles or tank tops. Common in fashion.
A specific under-kimono garment, like a slip or loincloth
A kimono undergarment, similar to a slip. Worn between the skin and the kimono to keep the outer garment clean.
着物の下に襦袢を着る。
I wear a juban under the kimono.
Traditional Japanese loincloth, worn by men especially during festivals or sumo.
The English word 'undergarment' is formal and somewhat dated. In Japanese, it's more natural to use specific words like 下着 (したぎ) or パンツ for everyday underwear, or 肌着 (はだぎ) for undershirts. Using a direct translation like 下着類 (したぎるい) sounds unnatural in conversation.
Loanword for undershirt, often used in fashion or retail contexts.
アンダーシャツを重ね着する。
I layer an undershirt.
インナーはユニクロで買った。
I bought inner wear at Uniqlo.
祭りでふんどしを締める。
I tighten the loincloth at the festival.