Translation guide
The English word "drugs" can refer to medicine, illegal substances, or substances that affect the body. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression based on context.
Referring to substances used for medical treatment, whether prescription or over-the-counter.
The most common and general word for medicine or drugs. Can be used for both prescription and over-the-counter drugs. Context usually makes it clear that it's medicine, not illegal drugs.
この薬を一日三回飲んでください。
Please take this medicine three times a day.
薬局で薬を買いました。
I bought medicine at the pharmacy.
A more formal term for pharmaceutical products. Often used in official contexts, such as on labels or in medical settings.
この医薬品は副作用があります。
This drug has side effects.
Referring to substances used for non-medical purposes, often illegal.
The standard term for narcotics or illegal drugs. It carries a strong negative connotation and is used in legal and news contexts.
彼は麻薬の密売で逮捕された。
He was arrested for drug trafficking.
麻薬は絶対に使ってはいけません。
You must never use drugs.
A loanword from English, often used in media or casual conversation to refer to illegal drugs. Can sound slightly sensational or informal.
A formal term meaning 'illegal drugs'. Used in legal documents or news reports.
違法薬物の使用は犯罪です。
Using illegal drugs is a crime.
Talking about drug addiction, abuse, or the social problem of drugs.
Means 'drug abuse'. A common compound used in discussions about addiction and public health.
薬物乱用は深刻な問題です。
Drug abuse is a serious problem.
Means 'drug dependence' or 'addiction'. Used in medical or psychological contexts.
彼は薬物依存症の治療を受けている。
He is receiving treatment for drug addiction.
Referring to any chemical substance that has a physiological effect, often in scientific contexts.
A broad term for drugs or chemical substances, often used in scientific, medical, or legal contexts. It can refer to both medicines and harmful substances.
この薬物は神経系に作用します。
This drug acts on the nervous system.
While ドラッグ is understood, it can sound overly casual or sensational. In formal or serious discussions, use 麻薬 or 薬物.
麻薬取締法
Narcotics Control Law
The word 薬 is neutral and can mean both 'medicine' and 'drugs' depending on context. To clarify, you can add modifiers like 違法な (illegal) or 処方 (prescription).
彼はドラッグに手を出した。
He got into drugs.
Means 'chemical substance'. Not specific to drugs, but can be used in contexts discussing the chemical nature of drugs.
その薬は危険な化学物質を含んでいる。
That drug contains dangerous chemical substances.