Translation guide
The English word "voice" covers several distinct concepts in Japanese. The most common meanings are the physical sound produced when speaking, and the act of expressing an opinion. Other uses include a character's voice in media, grammatical voice, and metaphorical senses.
The sound produced by a person when speaking or singing.
The most common and general word for 'voice'. It refers to the sound made by humans and animals.
彼女の声はとてもきれいだ。
Her voice is very beautiful.
Please speak in a loud voice.
Often used in technical or formal contexts, such as 'voice recognition' or 'audio'. It emphasizes the sound as a signal.
Voice recognition technology is advancing.
The act of expressing one's thoughts, opinions, or feelings, especially in a collective context.
Also used metaphorically for 'opinion' or 'say'. Often appears in phrases like 声を上げる (to raise one's voice/speak out).
We should listen to the voice of the people.
He raised his voice in opposition.
Directly means 'opinion'. Use this when 'voice' simply means 'opinion'.
Means 'right to speak' or 'say'. Used in formal contexts like meetings.
The voice of a character in animation, video games, or dubbing, often referring to the voice actor's performance.
The standard term for a character's voice. Often combined with 優 (actor) to mean 'voice actor' (声優).
Whose voice is this character?
He is famous as a voice actor.
Loanword from English, often used in gaming or media contexts, e.g., 'voice pack' (ボイスパック).
The grammatical category that expresses the relationship between the verb and its arguments (active, passive, etc.).
Specifically the voice used for singing, often with a focus on quality or style.
A metaphorical voice representing one's inner thoughts, conscience, or intuition.
English uses 'voice' in many idiomatic expressions that don't directly translate to 声. For example, 'to voice an opinion' is 意見を言う, not 声を言う. 'At the top of one's voice' is 声を限りに or 大声で. Always consider the intended meaning before choosing a Japanese equivalent.
声 (こえ) is the general word for voice, used for people and animals. 音声 (おんせい) is more technical and refers to voice as audio data or sound signal, often used in technology contexts like 音声認識 (voice recognition).
She has a beautiful voice.
We need to listen to the voice of the customer.
He voiced his concerns at the meeting.
Here 'voice' is a verb, translated as 表明する (express).
Please let us hear your voices (opinions).
I have no voice (say) in this matter.
I downloaded a new voice pack.
The voice system of Japanese is complex.
He sings with a good voice.