Translation guide
The English word "content" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common uses for learners: the subject matter of a book or speech, a state of satisfaction, and digital content. Each meaning requires different Japanese expressions.
Referring to what is inside a book, speech, website, etc.
The most common and general word for 'content' as subject matter or substance. Used for books, speeches, websites, etc.
この本の内容は難しい。
The content of this book is difficult.
スピーチの内容をまとめてください。
Please summarize the content of the speech.
Literally 'inside contents', often used for physical contents of a container, but can also refer to the substance of something abstract. Slightly more casual than 内容.
箱の中身を確認してください。
Please check the contents of the box.
彼の話は中身がない。
His talk has no substance.
Loanword from English, often used in business or digital contexts (e.g., web content, media content). Not used for abstract 'content' of a speech.
ウェブサイトのコンテンツを更新する。
Update the website content.
Describing a feeling of being happy and satisfied with what one has.
The standard way to say 'to be content/satisfied'. 満足 (satisfaction) + している (is feeling).
彼は今の生活に満足している。
He is content with his current life.
私はその結果に満足していない。
I am not content with the result.
A more literary or emotional expression meaning 'to be fully content, fulfilled'. Often used in writing.
彼女は満ち足りた表情をしていた。
She had a contented look on her face.
To content oneself with something, often implying settling for less than ideal. Used in formal or written contexts.
Referring to online or digital media such as videos, articles, music, etc.
The standard term for digital content. Widely used in IT, marketing, and media industries.
このアプリでは有料コンテンツが購入できます。
You can purchase paid content in this app.
動画コンテンツの人気が高まっている。
Video content is becoming more popular.
Can also be used for digital content, especially when emphasizing the substance rather than the format.
内容 (ないよう) only means 'content' in the sense of subject matter. To express being content/satisfied, use 満足 (まんぞく) or related phrases.
内容 is more formal and abstract, suitable for speeches, books, and discussions. 中身 is more concrete and often used for physical contents, but can also imply substance in a casual way. 中身がない means 'lacking substance'.
その記事の内容は面白かった。
The content of the article was interesting.
彼女は仕事に満足しているようだ。
She seems content with her job.
彼は二流の地位に甘んじている。
He contents himself with a second-rate position.
サイトの内容をリニューアルした。
We revamped the site's content.