Translation guide
Cattle raised specifically for milk production. In Japanese, the most common term is 乳牛, but related terms exist for the industry and specific roles.
Referring to cows kept for milk production in general.
The standard term for dairy cattle. Used in farming, agriculture, and everyday contexts.
この牧場では乳牛を100頭飼育しています。
This farm raises 100 head of dairy cattle.
Literally 'milk-use cattle'. More technical, often used in agricultural statistics or formal contexts.
乳用牛の飼育頭数は年々減少しています。
The number of dairy cattle raised is decreasing year by year.
Referring to a single cow used for milk production.
Same word as above; context determines singular/plural.
あの乳牛は一日に30リットルの牛乳を出します。
That dairy cow produces 30 liters of milk a day.
Specifically a cow currently being milked. Used in dairy farming contexts.
搾乳牛には特別な飼料を与えています。
We give special feed to the milking cows.
Referring to breeds of cattle specifically developed for milk production, such as Holstein.
Means 'dairy breed'. Used when distinguishing from beef breeds.
ホルスタインは代表的な乳用種です。
Holstein is a typical dairy breed.
Literally 'breeds of dairy cattle'. More descriptive, used in general explanations.
乳牛の品種にはホルスタインやジャージーなどがあります。
Dairy cattle breeds include Holstein and Jersey.
Referring to the industry or practice of raising dairy cattle.
Means 'dairy farming'. Often used when talking about the business or lifestyle.
北海道は酪農が盛んです。
Dairy farming is thriving in Hokkaido.
Dairy farmer. The person who raises dairy cattle.
乳牛 (にゅうぎゅう) refers to dairy cattle, while 肉牛 (にくぎゅう) refers to beef cattle. 牛 (うし) alone can mean either, but context usually clarifies.
Cattle are counted using 頭 (とう), as in 一頭 (いっとう) for one head. This counter is used for large animals.
彼は酪農家として30年の経験があります。
He has 30 years of experience as a dairy farmer.