Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of a condominium is expressed through loanwords and native terms that distinguish between the building type and the individual unit. The most common term is マンション, but it can refer to both rental and owned apartments. For owned units, 分譲マンション is more precise. There is also a legal distinction between ownership types.
The speaker wants to refer to a condominium building or an apartment in a multi-unit building, without specifying ownership.
The most common and general term for a condominium or apartment building. It can refer to both rental and owned units. In everyday conversation, it is used broadly.
新しいマンションが駅の近くに建った。
A new condominium was built near the station.
彼は都心のマンションに住んでいる。
He lives in a condominium in the city center.
A formal term for multi-unit housing, including condominiums and apartment complexes. Used in official contexts or real estate.
この地域には多くの集合住宅がある。
There are many multi-unit dwellings in this area.
The speaker wants to emphasize that the unit is owned, not rented.
Specifically refers to a condominium that is sold as individual units, i.e., owner-occupied. This is the most precise term for a condominium in the legal sense.
分譲マンションを購入した。
I purchased a condominium.
Literally 'owned house', but can refer to an owned condominium unit as well. It emphasizes ownership rather than the building type.
The speaker wants to refer to the legal concept of owning a unit in a building without owning the land.
Legal term for condominium ownership, where each unit is individually owned and common areas are shared. Used in legal documents and real estate contracts.
このマンションは区分所有になっている。
This condominium is under divided ownership.
A building under divided ownership; a condominium building in legal terms.
区分所有建物の管理組合に参加する。
Participate in the condominium association.
マンション typically refers to larger, more modern buildings (often reinforced concrete), while アパート refers to smaller, often wooden or light steel-frame buildings. However, the distinction is not always strict, and some rental apartments are called マンション for marketing purposes. For a condominium you own, 分譲マンション is clearer.
このアパートは木造です。
This apartment building is wooden.
一戸建て (いっこだて) is a detached house, while マンション is a multi-unit building. When discussing housing choices, Japanese people often contrast these two.
一戸建てとマンション、どちらがいいですか？
Which is better, a house or a condominium?
やっと持ち家を手に入れた。
I finally got my own place (could be a house or condo).