Translation guide
The term 'virtual reality' refers to a computer-generated simulation of a three-dimensional environment that can be interacted with in a seemingly real way. In Japanese, it is commonly expressed using the loanword バーチャルリアリティ or its abbreviation VR. This guide covers how to talk about virtual reality technology, experiences, and related concepts in natural Japanese.
Referring to virtual reality as a field, technology, or general concept.
The standard loanword for 'virtual reality'. Widely understood, especially in technical and media contexts.
バーチャルリアリティの技術は急速に進歩している。
Virtual reality technology is advancing rapidly.
The abbreviation 'VR' is extremely common in Japanese, used in both casual and formal contexts. Pronounced as the letters V and R.
最近、VRゲームが人気です。
Recently, VR games are popular.
The native Japanese term for 'virtual reality'. More formal and often used in academic or technical writing, but less common in everyday speech than the loanword.
仮想現実は教育分野でも活用されている。
Virtual reality is also being utilized in the field of education.
Describing an immersive simulated experience or a specific virtual world.
Means 'VR experience'. Commonly used for events, demos, or personal experiences with VR.
あのVR体験は本当にリアルだった。
That VR experience was really realistic.
Literally 'virtual space'. Refers to a virtual environment or digital space, often used in contexts like social VR or metaverse.
バーチャル空間で友達と会話した。
I talked with friends in a virtual space.
Means 'virtual world'. Used for expansive simulated worlds, like in novels or games, but less common than VR-specific terms.
Referring to the hardware used for VR, such as headsets or goggles.
The standard term for a VR headset. Widely used in product descriptions and everyday conversation.
新しいVRヘッドセットを買った。
I bought a new VR headset.
Often used interchangeably with VRヘッドセット, but can imply a more goggle-like design. Common in casual speech.
VRゴーグルをつけてゲームをする。
I put on VR goggles and play games.
In Japanese, the abbreviation VR (pronounced ブイアール) is far more common in everyday conversation and media than the full term バーチャルリアリティ. When talking about VR games, experiences, or equipment, using VR is natural and widely understood.
VRを体験してみたい。
I want to try VR.
その小説では、人々が仮想世界に没頭している。
In that novel, people are immersed in a virtual world.