Translation guide
A vegan is someone who does not eat or use any animal products. This guide covers how to describe being vegan, vegan food, and related concepts in Japanese.
To say that someone follows a vegan diet or lifestyle.
The most common and direct loanword for 'vegan'. Widely understood, especially among younger people and in urban areas.
She became vegan.
A more formal or explanatory term meaning 'strict vegetarian'. Less common in casual conversation but may appear in written contexts.
He is a vegan (strict vegetarian).
An alternative spelling of 'vegan' using the character ヴィ. Less common than ビーガン.
I'm looking for a vegan restaurant.
To indicate that something contains no animal-derived ingredients.
Means 'vegan-friendly' or 'suitable for vegans'. Commonly used on menus and product labels.
This curry is vegan-friendly.
Literally 'no animal-derived ingredients used'. A clear and formal way to state that a product is vegan. Often seen on packaging.
Short for 'strict vegetarian diet', sometimes used to imply vegan. Less direct than other options.
We have a strict vegetarian (vegan) menu.
To clarify the concept of veganism to someone unfamiliar with it.
A clear explanation: 'I don't eat or use any animal products at all.' Use this when the word ビーガン might not be understood.
A vegan is someone who doesn't eat any animal products at all.
Lists common animal products avoided. Useful for specifying dietary restrictions.
To request a meal without animal products.
A polite way to ask for a dish without animal products. '抜きで' means 'without' or 'omitting'.
Please make it without any animal products.
Asks if there is a vegan menu. Simple and direct.
Asks if a specific item is vegan. Useful for checking individual dishes.
Is this ramen vegan?
In Japan, 'vegetarian' (ベジタリアン) is more widely recognized than 'vegan', but it often includes fish-based dashi or eggs. If you are strictly vegan, always clarify that you avoid all animal products, including dashi (出汁), which is commonly made from fish.
I'd like to avoid animal-based dashi as well.
The word ビーガン is increasingly common, especially in cities and among younger generations. However, in rural areas or with older people, you may need to explain the concept using phrases like 動物性のものを食べない (I don't eat animal products).
These sweets contain no animal-derived ingredients.
I don't eat meat, fish, eggs, dairy, honey, etc.
Excuse me, do you have a vegan menu?