Translation guide
The English word 'wireless' is most commonly used as an adjective meaning 'without wires' or 'using radio waves instead of cables'. In Japanese, it is often expressed with the loanword ワイヤレス, but native terms like 無線 are also common, especially in technical contexts. This guide covers how to express 'wireless' in various situations.
Describing devices, connections, or technology that operate without physical wires, typically using radio waves.
The most common and versatile term for 'wireless' in everyday contexts, especially for consumer electronics like headphones, mice, and networks.
ワイヤレスイヤホンを買いました。
I bought wireless earphones.
このマウスはワイヤレスです。
This mouse is wireless.
A native Japanese term meaning 'wireless' or 'radio'. Often used in compound words and technical contexts, such as 無線LAN (wireless LAN) or 無線通信 (wireless communication).
無線LANの設定をしています。
I'm setting up the wireless LAN.
無線通信技術が進歩している。
Wireless communication technology is advancing.
Specifically means 'cordless', often used for appliances like phones, vacuum cleaners, or tools that operate without a power cord. Slightly narrower than ワイヤレス.
コードレス掃除機は便利です。
Cordless vacuum cleaners are convenient.
コードレス電話を使っています。
I'm using a cordless phone.
Referring to communication via radio waves, such as two-way radios or broadcasting.
The standard term for radio communication, including amateur radio, walkie-talkies, and wireless telegraphy.
無線で連絡を取り合った。
We kept in touch by radio.
彼は無線技士の免許を持っている。
He has a radio operator's license.
Sometimes used for modern wireless communication systems, but 無線 is more common in traditional radio contexts.
Referring to a device that receives radio broadcasts, especially in older or British English.
The standard Japanese word for a radio receiver. Use this when 'wireless' means a radio set.
昔、家族でラジオを聞いていた。
In the old days, the family listened to the wireless.
A more technical term for a radio transceiver or wireless device, often used in professional or military contexts.
無線機を使って交信した。
We communicated using a wireless set.
ワイヤレス is the most common and general term for 'wireless' in consumer electronics. 無線 is more technical and often used in compound words like 無線LAN or 無線通信. コードレス specifically means 'cordless' and is used for devices that traditionally had a cord, like phones or vacuum cleaners.
In modern English, 'wireless' as a noun meaning 'radio' is dated. In Japanese, use ラジオ for a radio receiver. Do not use ワイヤレス to mean a radio set unless referring to a specific wireless device in context.
ワイヤレス通信システムを導入した。
We introduced a wireless communication system.