Translation guide
The English word 'asexual' can refer to a sexual orientation (lack of sexual attraction), a biological mode of reproduction, or a general lack of sexual characteristics. This guide focuses on the orientation meaning, which is most relevant for learners, and briefly covers other uses.
Describing a person who does not experience sexual attraction, or the orientation itself.
The most common and direct way to say 'asexual' in the context of sexual orientation. Widely used in LGBTQ+ communities and media.
彼はアセクシュアルを自認している。
He identifies as asexual.
アセクシュアルの人も恋愛はします。
Asexual people also experience romantic attraction.
A more formal or academic term literally meaning 'person without sexual love'. Used in some educational materials.
無性愛者は性的魅力を感じない人々です。
Asexual people are those who do not feel sexual attraction.
An abbreviation sometimes used in casual online spaces. 'A' stands for asexual.
Aセクのコミュニティに参加した。
I joined an asexual community.
In formal or medical contexts, you might explain the concept rather than use a single word. However, the loanword is now standard.
性的指向の一つとして、他者に性的に惹かれないアセクシュアルがあります。
As one sexual orientation, there is asexuality, where one does not feel sexually attracted to others.
Referring to reproduction that does not involve the fusion of gametes, such as budding, fission, or parthenogenesis.
The standard biological term for asexual reproduction.
ヒドラは無性生殖で増える。
Hydra reproduce asexually.
無性生殖には分裂や出芽などがある。
Asexual reproduction includes fission and budding.
An adjective meaning 'asexual' in a biological sense, often used in compounds like 無性的繁殖 (asexual propagation).
この植物は無性的に繁殖する。
This plant reproduces asexually.
Describing an organism or stage that has no distinct sexual organs or features.
Means 'asexual' or 'sexless', used in biology to describe organisms without differentiated sexes.
無性の世代では生殖器官が発達しない。
In the asexual generation, reproductive organs do not develop.
Can mean 'neuter' or 'sexless', but more commonly means 'neutral'. Use with caution as it may imply gender neutrality rather than asexuality.
Often used for grammatical gender or neutral pH. Not a direct translation for asexual orientation.
その生物は中性的な外見をしている。
That creature has a neuter appearance.
The English word 'asexual' specifically refers to a lack of sexual attraction, not a lack of romantic attraction or a decision to abstain from sex. In Japanese, アセクシュアル carries the same nuance. Avoid using 無性愛者 in casual conversation unless you are sure of the context, as it sounds clinical.
彼は恋愛はするけど、性的な魅力は感じないアセクシュアルです。
He is asexual; he experiences romantic attraction but not sexual attraction.
In Japanese, アセクシュアル (asexual) is distinct from アロマンティック (aromantic). Some people are both, but they are separate concepts. 無性愛者 may be interpreted as encompassing both, so clarify if needed.
アセクシュアルでもアロマンティックとは限らない。
Being asexual doesn't necessarily mean being aromantic.
彼女は去年、アセクシュアルだとカミングアウトした。
She came out as asexual last year.
植物では無性生殖が一般的です。
Asexual reproduction is common in plants.