Translation guide
The English word 'lips' refers to the fleshy parts around the mouth. In Japanese, the most common word is 唇 (くちびる). However, there are other related terms and expressions, especially in poetic or descriptive contexts.
Referring to the lips as a physical feature of the face.
The standard, everyday word for 'lips'. Used in both casual and formal contexts.
A more formal or medical term for 'lips'. Often used in compound words or technical contexts.
口唇ヘルペスに注意してください。
Be careful of cold sores on the lips.
Loanword from English, used mainly in product names (e.g., lip balm) or in casual, trendy contexts. Not used for the body part in normal conversation.
新しいリップクリームを買った。
I bought a new lip balm.
Describing lips in a more expressive, literary, or aesthetic way.
Literary term for 'red lips' or 'vermilion lips'. Used in poetry or romantic descriptions.
彼女の朱唇が美しい。
Her vermilion lips are beautiful.
Another literary term for red lips, similar to 朱唇 but less common.
Expressions where 'lips' is used figuratively, often meaning insincere talk.
Means 'just lip service' or 'empty words'. Literally 'only the tip of the mouth'.
彼の謝罪は口先だけだった。
His apology was just lip service.
Loanword meaning 'lip service' or flattering talk, often used in casual conversation.
それはただのリップサービスだよ。
That's just lip service.
While リップ is used in compound words like リップクリーム (lip balm), it is not used to refer to the lips themselves in normal conversation. Stick to 唇 (くちびる).
A woman with striking red lips.