Translation guide
A young person, often a child or teenager. Japanese has many words for 'youngster,' but the best choice depends on age, gender, formality, and the speaker's relationship to the person. This guide covers the most useful terms for English-speaking learners.
To refer to a young person in a neutral or formal context, such as news, official writing, or polite conversation.
The standard, neutral word for 'young person' or 'youth.' It can refer to teenagers and young adults, roughly ages 15–30. Commonly used in news, surveys, and formal contexts.
Young people these days use smartphones a lot.
The youth unemployment rate is rising.
Refers specifically to 'adolescents' or 'youth,' often in legal, educational, or welfare contexts. Covers roughly ages 12–18. More formal than 若者.
We are focusing on the healthy development of young people.
To refer to a young male, from a child to a teenager, in everyday conversation.
The most common word for 'boy,' typically up to around 12 years old. Can be used by anyone.
That boy is good at soccer.
Means 'boy' in a slightly more formal or literary sense, often used for boys up to about 15. Common in news reports and official contexts.
An affectionate term for a little boy, similar to 'little guy' or 'sonny.' Used by adults to address young boys familiarly. Can sound condescending if used for older children.
To refer to a young female, from a child to a teenager, in everyday conversation.
The most common word for 'girl,' typically up to around 12 years old. Can be used by anyone.
The girls are jumping rope.
Means 'girl' in a more formal or literary sense, often used for girls up to about 15. Common in news, literature, and official contexts.
To refer to a child or children in a warm, general sense, often by parents or in community contexts.
The most common word for 'child' or 'children.' Can be used for any young person from baby to early teens. Neutral and widely used.
Children are playing in the park.
A shorter, more affectionate or informal way to say 'child.' Often used in compounds or when speaking about one's own child. Can sound blunt alone.
To specify a young person in their teens, often with a nuance of being in the transitional stage between child and adult.
To refer to a young person emphasizing their youthfulness, energy, or inexperience, often in a slightly old-fashioned or affectionate way.
A somewhat poetic or old-fashioned word for 'young person,' often implying vigor and promise. Used in speeches, literature, or formal encouragement.
Young people, have great ambitions!
Refers to young men, especially in a traditional or rural context, like young workers or apprentices. Can also mean 'young guys' in a friendly, informal way.
To address a young person directly, often by an older person, in a friendly or scolding manner.
Japanese doesn't have a direct equivalent of 'youngster' as a form of address. Instead, older people might use 君 (きみ) for a young man in a slightly formal or friendly way, or お前 (おまえ) for a more rough or intimate address. Using the person's name with くん/ちゃん is safer.
Direct translation of 'youngster' as a form of address can sound unnatural or rude. Use names or appropriate pronouns instead.
Hey, youngster, can you help me out?
English 'youngster' is often used affectionately or casually by older speakers. Japanese has no single word that matches this tone perfectly. Using 若者 (わかもの) to address someone directly would sound odd. Instead, choose a word based on the specific age, gender, and relationship, or use the person's name with an appropriate honorific.
若者 (わかもの) is the broadest term for 'young people,' roughly 15–30. 青少年 (せいしょうねん) is more formal and specifically refers to adolescents (12–18). 十代 (じゅうだい) literally means 'teens' (13–19) and is used in statistical or descriptive contexts. For general use, 若者 is the safest choice.
迷子の少年が保護された。
A lost boy was taken into protective custody.
What's your name, little guy?
The girl spoke of her dreams.
Our kid is already in elementary school.
Loanword from English 'teenager.' Common in casual conversation and media, but slightly less formal than 十代.
a magazine for teenagers
The young men of the village are preparing for the festival.