Translation guide
Specialized vocabulary used by a particular group, often to exclude outsiders. In Japanese, this can be expressed through words for jargon, slang, or secret languages.
Referring to the technical or specialized vocabulary of a profession, hobby, or group.
Describing casual, in-group language that may not be understood by outsiders.
Slang or colloquial language, often used by specific social groups.
Referring to a deliberately obscure language used to hide meaning from outsiders.
The standard term for secret language or cant, often used by criminals or closed communities.
専門用語 (technical terminology) is neutral and widely used for any specialized field. 隠語 implies secrecy and is often associated with underworld or closed groups. Use 専門用語 for academic or professional jargon, and 隠語 for deliberately obscure language.
法律の専門用語は難しい。
Legal jargon is difficult.
彼らは隠語で取引の話をした。
They discussed the deal in argot.
For contemporary, informal group language (like internet slang or youth slang), スラング is often more natural than 俗語. 俗語 can sound slightly academic or dated.
The most common and neutral term for technical terminology or jargon.
医者の専門用語は患者にはわかりにくい。
Medical jargon is hard for patients to understand.
Industry-specific jargon, often used in business or trade contexts.
IT業界の業界用語は日々増えている。
IT industry jargon is increasing every day.
Secret language or cant used by a closed group, often with a nuance of concealment.
泥棒たちは隠語で話していた。
The thieves were speaking in argot.
若者の俗語はすぐに変わる。
Youth slang changes quickly.
Loanword from English, commonly used for modern slang, especially among younger people.
このスラングの意味がわからない。
I don't understand the meaning of this slang.
In-group language or jargon used among friends or close associates.
彼らは仲間言葉で盛り上がっていた。
They were having fun using their in-group argot.
彼らは警察に聞かれないように隠語を使った。
They used argot so the police wouldn't understand.
A code word or sign used within a specific trade or group, often for prices or goods.
市場では符丁を使って値段を決めている。
In the market, they use argot to set prices.
Literally 'code' or 'cipher', can be used metaphorically for incomprehensible jargon.
彼の話はまるで暗号のようだ。
His speech is like argot to me.
Recent slang spreads through social media.
Recent slang spreads through social media.