Translation guide
The English word 'washer' can refer to a machine for washing clothes, a person who washes, or a small flat ring used with nuts and bolts. This guide focuses on the most common meanings for learners.
A machine for washing clothes, commonly called a 'washing machine' in English.
The standard word for a washing machine. Used in both spoken and written Japanese.
新しい洗濯機を買いました。
I bought a new washing machine.
洗濯機が壊れてしまった。
The washing machine broke down.
A washer-dryer combo. Use this when specifying a machine that both washes and dries.
洗濯乾燥機は便利です。
A washer-dryer is convenient.
A person whose job is to wash clothes, dishes, cars, etc.
A general pattern meaning 'a person who washes ~'. Replace 〜 with the object being washed.
彼は窓を洗う人です。
He is a window washer.
皿を洗う人を探しています。
We are looking for a dishwasher (person).
Refers to a laundry shop or a person who runs a laundry service. Not used for a person who washes as an employee.
A thin flat ring used with nuts and bolts to distribute pressure or prevent leakage.
The most common term for a hardware washer. A loanword from English.
このボルトにはワッシャーが必要です。
This bolt needs a washer.
A more technical term for a washer, often used in engineering contexts.
座金を入れてください。
Please insert a washer.
洗濯機 (せんたくき) is for clothes. For a dishwasher (machine), use 食器洗い機 (しょっきあらいき) or 食洗機 (しょくせんき).
食器洗い機が欲しい。
I want a dishwasher.
洗濯屋に出す。
I'll send it to the laundry.