Translation guide
The part of the body between the ribs and hips, or the measurement around it. Also used for the part of clothing that fits around the waist.
Referring to the anatomical waist, the narrow part of the torso.
The most common and general word for the lower back and waist area. Covers both the anatomical region and the concept of waist in everyday contexts.
腰が痛い。
My lower back/waist hurts.
He put his hands on his waist.
Loanword from English, used specifically for waist measurement (e.g., clothing size) or when emphasizing the narrowest part of the torso. Not used for lower back pain.
Measure the waist.
She has a slim waist.
Refers to the circumference of the torso, often used in clothing or body measurements. More technical or formal than ウエスト.
Measure the waist circumference.
The part of a garment that fits around the waist.
The numerical measurement around the waist, often for clothing size or health.
While 腰 means the body part, ウエスト is the standard term for waist measurement in clothing. Using 腰 for size may cause confusion.
My waist is 76 cm.
腰 refers to the lower back/hip area and is used for physical sensations or posture. ウエスト refers to the narrowest part of the torso and is used for measurements and clothing. For back pain, always use 腰.
Bend at the waist.
Clothes that make the waist look slim.
She has a narrow waist.
I hurt my waist lifting boxes.
A skirt with an elastic waist.
Pants with a relaxed fit around the waist.