Translation guide
The English word 'child' can refer to a young person, a son or daughter, or be used in various figurative senses. This guide helps learners choose the most natural Japanese expression depending on the context.
Referring to a child in the general sense of a young human, not yet an adult.
The most common and neutral word for 'child'. Can be used for both boys and girls, singular or plural.
あの子供は元気ですね。
That child is energetic, isn't he?
公園にたくさんの子供がいます。
There are many children in the park.
A slightly more formal or written form of 'child'. Often used in compounds or set phrases.
その子はとても賢い。
That child is very smart.
Alternative spelling of 子供, often used in educational or child-friendly contexts. The meaning is identical.
子どもたちが遊んでいます。
The children are playing.
Referring to one's own child, regardless of age.
Used for one's own children, just like 'child' in English. Can be used for adult children as well.
私の子供は二人います。
I have two children.
子供が大学を卒業しました。
My child graduated from university.
Specifically means 'son'. Use when you need to specify gender.
息子は医者です。
My son is a doctor.
Specifically means 'daughter'.
Emphasizing that someone is not an adult, often in legal or social contexts.
Means 'minor' (under legal age). Used in formal or legal contexts.
未成年の飲酒は禁止されています。
Underage drinking is prohibited.
Means 'adult'. Often used in contrast with 子供 to emphasize the child/adult distinction.
Calling someone childish or immature.
Adjective meaning 'childish' or 'immature'. Describes behavior or personality.
彼はまだ子供っぽいところがある。
He still has a childish side.
Means 'like a child'. Can be used for both positive (innocent) and negative (immature) connotations.
そんなことで怒るなんて子供みたいだ。
Getting angry over something like that is childish.
Referring to something that is the result or creation of a particular time, situation, or person (e.g., 'child of the 80s').
When asking 'How old is your child?', use お子さん (おこさん) for politeness, not 子供. 子供 can sound blunt when referring to someone else's child.
お子さんはおいくつですか？
How old is your child?
子供 is the standard word for 'child' in most contexts. 子 is more literary and often appears in compounds (e.g., 子育て, 子供). Using 子 alone in conversation can sound old-fashioned or poetic.
My daughter got married.
There are child and adult rates.