Translation guide
The English word 'pet' can refer to a domestic animal kept for companionship, or to the act of stroking or patting an animal or person. This guide covers both meanings, with natural Japanese expressions for each.
Referring to an animal kept as a companion, such as a dog, cat, or hamster.
The most common and direct translation, used in everyday conversation. A loanword from English.
ペットを飼っていますか。
Do you have a pet?
彼女はペットとして猫を飼っている。
She keeps a cat as a pet.
A formal or technical term meaning 'pet animal'. Used in legal or academic contexts, not in casual speech.
愛玩動物の飼育には責任が伴う。
Keeping a pet comes with responsibility.
Describing the action of gently stroking or patting an animal, typically to show affection.
The most common verb for 'to pet' or 'to stroke' an animal. Can also be used for people in affectionate contexts.
犬を撫でてもいいですか。
May I pet your dog?
猫が喉を撫でられるのが好きだ。
The cat likes being petted on the throat.
Means 'to pet all over' or 'to stroke repeatedly'. Implies a more enthusiastic or thorough petting.
An onomatopoeic expression often used when petting or comforting a child or pet. It mimics the sound of gentle patting and is very casual and affectionate.
赤ちゃんの頭をよしよしした。
I petted the baby's head (saying 'there, there').
Describing the action of gently stroking a person, often on the head, as a gesture of affection or comfort.
Same verb as for animals, but context makes it clear. Commonly used for stroking a child's head or a lover's hair.
彼は彼女の髪を優しく撫でた。
He gently petted her hair.
母親が子供の頭を撫でた。
The mother petted her child's head.
Specifically 'to pet the head'. A common phrase when the action is directed at the head.
先生が生徒の頭を撫でて褒めた。
The teacher petted the student's head and praised them.
While 撫でる can be used for people, it is typically reserved for close relationships or children. Using it with strangers or in formal situations may be inappropriate. In many cases, it's better to describe the action more specifically or avoid direct translation.
彼は彼女の肩をポンと叩いた。
He patted her on the shoulder.
子供が子犬を撫で回している。
The child is petting the puppy all over.