Translation guide
In Japanese, the most common and neutral word for condom is コンドーム. There are also slang terms and euphemisms used in casual or intimate contexts.
The standard, neutral word for a condom, used in everyday conversation, medical contexts, and stores.
The most common and neutral term. It is a loanword from English and is widely understood.
Informal words used among friends or in intimate situations. These can sound crude or playful depending on context.
Literally 'rubber'. A very common casual term, similar to 'rubber' in English. Used in everyday speech.
Ways to refer to condoms without saying the word directly, often used in advertising or discreet conversation.
コンドーム is the standard, neutral term suitable for any situation. ゴム is casual and very common in everyday speech, but may be too informal for medical or formal contexts. ゴム can also mean 'rubber' in general, so context is important.
医者にコンドームの使い方を聞いた。
I asked the doctor how to use a condom.
友達にゴムもらった。
I got a condom from a friend.
English slang like 'jimmy hat' or 'love glove' does not have direct equivalents in Japanese. Using literal translations will not be understood. Stick to コンドーム or ゴム.
薬局でコンドームを買った。
I bought condoms at the pharmacy.
コンドームは避妊に有効です。
Condoms are effective for contraception.
ゴムある？
Do you have a condom?
ゴムをつけるのを忘れないで。
Don't forget to put on a condom.
From English 'skin'. A less common slang term, sometimes used in adult contexts.
スキンを買いに行く。
I'm going to buy some condoms.
From English 'sack'. Slang, can sound dated or vulgar. Use with caution.
Can be considered crude or old-fashioned. Not recommended for polite conversation.
サック持ってる？
You got a rubber?
Literally 'contraceptive device'. A formal, clinical term. Used in medical or educational settings.
避妊具の使用率が上がっている。
The usage rate of contraceptives is increasing.