Translation guide
How to express 'debut' in Japanese, covering first public appearances, career starts, and product launches.
彼女は歌手としてデビューした。
She debuted as a singer.
初めての運転です。
This is my first time driving.
To say someone makes their first appearance in a professional or public role, such as a singer, actor, or athlete.
The most common and direct loanword for 'debut', used for artists, athletes, and public figures. Often used with する to mean 'to debut'.
彼女は歌手としてデビューした。
She debuted as a singer.
デビューアルバムが大ヒットした。
Their debut album was a huge hit.
Literally 'first stage', used for a debut performance in theater, dance, or traditional arts. More specific than デビュー.
彼は来月、初舞台を踏む。
He will make his stage debut next month.
Specifically for a debut match or bout in sports, especially combat sports or competitive games.
新人ボクサーがデビュー戦でKO勝ちした。
The rookie boxer won by KO in his debut match.
To describe the initial release of a product, book, film, or other creative work.
Also used for the first release of a product or work, especially in entertainment. Can be used as a noun modifier.
そのバンドのデビューシングルはすぐに売り切れた。
The band's debut single sold out quickly.
Means 'first appearance' and can be used for products entering the market or charts, e.g., 'debuted at number one'.
Means 'release' or 'launch' for products. Often used with する to mean 'to release'. Not exactly 'debut', but used when a product first becomes available.
To express that someone is doing something for the first time, often in a casual or personal context, not necessarily a professional debut.
A versatile pattern meaning 'first ~'. Use with a noun to indicate a personal first experience. Not a direct translation of 'debut' but often used in similar contexts.
今日が初めての運転だ。
Today is my driving debut.
初めての海外旅行で緊張している。
I'm nervous about my first trip abroad.
Can be used humorously or casually for personal firsts, like 'cooking debut' or 'DIY debut'. Often used with する.
While デビュー can be used humorously for personal firsts (like cooking), it may sound odd in formal or serious contexts. For simple first-time experiences, 初めての〜 is safer and more natural.
初めての料理を作った。
I made my first dish.
その映画は興行収入ランキングで初登場1位を獲得した。
The movie debuted at number one at the box office.
新製品が来週発売される。
The new product will be released (debut) next week.
I made my cooking debut yesterday.