Translation guide
The English word 'ambulance' is most directly translated as 救急車 (kyūkyūsha). However, in Japanese, the broader emergency medical service system is often referenced, and the term 救急車 is used specifically for the vehicle. This guide covers how to talk about calling an ambulance, the vehicle itself, and related emergency services.
救急車
ambulance
Referring to the physical ambulance vehicle.
The standard word for an ambulance. Used in all contexts.
救急車が来ました。
The ambulance has arrived.
道で救急車を見ました。
I saw an ambulance on the road.
Expressing the action of calling for an ambulance.
The most common way to say 'call an ambulance'. The verb 呼ぶ means 'to call'.
すぐに救急車を呼んでください。
Please call an ambulance right away.
救急車を呼んだほうがいいです。
You should call an ambulance.
Literally 'to dial 119', the emergency number in Japan. Often used interchangeably with calling an ambulance, as 119 covers both fire and ambulance services.
急いで119番してください！
Hurry and call 119!
Referring to the system or concept of emergency medical services.
Means 'emergency' or 'first-aid'. Often used in compounds like 救急医療 (emergency medical care) or 救急病院 (emergency hospital).
救急医療が必要です。
Emergency medical care is needed.
A direct loanword combination meaning 'ambulance service' or 'emergency medical service'. Less common than 救急車 but understood.
この地域の救急サービスは充実しています。
The ambulance service in this area is well-established.
Referring to the people who work in an ambulance.
Refers to the ambulance crew or emergency medical technicians.
救急隊員が迅速に対応しました。
The ambulance crew responded quickly.
In Japan, the emergency number 119 is for both fire and ambulance. The word 消防車 (しょうぼうしゃ) means fire truck. Make sure to specify 救急車 if you need an ambulance.
Specifically a paramedic with advanced life-saving qualifications.
救急救命士が心肺蘇生を行いました。
The paramedic performed CPR.