Translation guide
The English term 'credit card' refers to a payment card issued by a financial institution, allowing the holder to purchase goods and services on credit. In Japanese, the most common and direct equivalent is クレジットカード, a loanword from English. This guide covers how to talk about credit cards in various contexts, including payment, application, and related phrases.
クレジットカード
credit card
Referring to a credit card as an object or payment method.
The standard Japanese word for 'credit card'. Used in all contexts, from casual to formal.
クレジットカードで払えますか？
Can I pay by credit card?
新しいクレジットカードを作りました。
I got a new credit card.
Short for クレジットカード. Very common in spoken Japanese when the context is clear.
カードでお願いします。
I'll pay by card, please.
Describing the act of paying with a credit card.
Means 'credit card payment'. Often used when discussing payment methods.
クレジットカード払いができますか？
Do you accept credit card payments?
Shorter version of クレジットカード払い, used in casual conversation.
カード払いでお願いします。
I'd like to pay by card, please.
Referring to the number on a credit card.
The standard term for 'credit card number'.
クレジットカード番号を入力してください。
Please enter your credit card number.
Short for クレジットカード番号, used when context is clear.
カード番号はどこに書いてありますか？
Where is the card number written?
Referring to the issuer of a credit card.
Means 'credit card company' or 'issuer'.
クレジットカード会社に連絡してください。
Please contact your credit card company.
The process of applying for a credit card.
Refers to a credit card application. 申し込み means 'application'.
クレジットカードの申し込みをしたいです。
I'd like to apply for a credit card.
Literally 'to make a credit card', but commonly means 'to get/apply for a credit card'.
クレジットカードを作りたいんですが。
I'd like to get a credit card.
Referring to debt accumulated on a credit card.
借金 means 'debt'. This phrase specifically refers to credit card debt.
クレジットカードの借金が増えています。
My credit card debt is increasing.
Refers to a card loan, often associated with credit card cash advances or revolving credit.
カードローンを返さなければなりません。
I have to pay back my card loan.
In everyday conversation, カード is often sufficient when the context is clear (e.g., at a store checkout). However, in formal or written contexts, or when distinguishing from other cards like debit cards or point cards, use クレジットカード.