Translation guide
The English word 'dope' has several distinct meanings: a slang term for drugs, a slang term for something excellent, a slang term for a foolish person, and a technical term for a varnish or coating. This guide focuses on the most common meanings for learners.
Referring to illegal drugs, especially marijuana, in informal contexts.
General term for narcotics or illegal drugs. Neutral and widely understood.
彼は麻薬の密売で逮捕された。
He was arrested for dealing dope.
Slang abbreviation of 麻薬, used in casual speech. Similar in tone to 'dope' as drugs.
ヤクに手を出すな。
Don't get into dope.
Slang for drugs, literally 'medicine'. Context-dependent; can mean medicine or drugs.
あいつはクスリをやってるらしい。
I heard he's doing dope.
Specifically marijuana/cannabis. More formal or technical than 'dope'.
大麻の使用は法律で禁止されている。
The use of dope is prohibited by law.
Expressing that something is great, impressive, or stylish.
Versatile word for 'amazing' or 'great'. Works in most contexts where 'dope' means excellent.
その曲、すごいね！
That song is dope!
Means 'cool' or 'stylish'. Often used for appearance, but can apply to things like music or design.
Slang for 'awesome' or 'insane' (in a good way). Very casual, similar to 'dope' in youth slang.
Slang for 'cool' or 'stylish', often used for fashion or trends. Slightly dated but still understood.
そのジャケット、イケてるね。
That jacket is dope.
Calling someone stupid or a fool.
Common insult for 'idiot' or 'fool'. Equivalent to calling someone a dope.
そんなことするなんて、バカだな。
You're a dope for doing that.
Kansai dialect for 'idiot', but widely understood. Similar nuance to 'dope' as a fool.
あいつは本当にアホだ。
He's a real dope.
Means 'blockhead' or 'dunce'. A bit old-fashioned but directly translates the 'foolish person' sense.
Referring to a type of varnish, lacquer, or aircraft dope.
General term for paint or coating. Can be used for 'dope' in technical contexts.
航空機の翼に塗料を塗る。
Apply dope to the aircraft wings.
Loanword from English, used in technical fields like aviation or chemistry for 'dope'.
The word 'dope' has very different meanings depending on context. Using 麻薬 for 'that's dope!' would be a serious mistake. Always consider the intended meaning before choosing a Japanese equivalent.
すごい is the safest and most versatile for 'excellent'. かっこいい is better for stylish/cool appearance. ヤバい is very casual and can also mean 'dangerous' or 'terrible', so use with care.
そのスニーカー、かっこいい！
Those sneakers are dope!
This game is dope!
He has a dopey look on his face.
This dope is quick-drying.