Translation guide
The English word 'pocket' most commonly refers to a small pouch sewn into clothing for carrying items. In Japanese, this is usually ポケット (poketto). However, 'pocket' can also mean a small isolated area or group, a financial resource, or be used in phrases like 'pocket of resistance'. This guide covers these uses with natural Japanese equivalents.
A small pouch sewn into or onto clothing, bags, etc., for carrying small items.
The standard loanword for 'pocket' in clothing. Used in almost all contexts.
鍵をポケットに入れた。
I put the keys in my pocket.
このジャケットにはポケットがたくさんある。
This jacket has a lot of pockets.
Refers to the inside breast pocket or the area inside the front of a kimono or coat. Often used in set phrases or literary contexts.
彼は懐から手紙を取り出した。
He took a letter out of his inside pocket.
A small area or group that is different from its surroundings, e.g., 'pocket of resistance', 'pocket of poverty'.
Literally 'isolated zone'. Used for geographical pockets, like a pocket of resistance or a pocket of infection.
敵の孤立地帯を掃討した。
We mopped up the enemy pocket.
Pattern meaning 'an area where ~ is concentrated'. Flexible for various contexts like 'pocket of wealth'.
この地域は貧困の集中する地域だ。
This area is a pocket of poverty.
Sometimes used as a direct loan in technical or military contexts, e.g., 'pocket battleship' (ポケット戦艦). Not common for general use.
One's available money or budget, as in 'out of pocket' or 'deep pockets'.
Means 'out-of-pocket expense', i.e., paid by oneself. Commonly used in medical or business contexts.
治療費は全額自己負担だった。
The medical expenses were entirely out of pocket.
Idiom meaning 'to have deep pockets' (financially or metaphorically generous/tolerant).
彼は懐が深いから、少々の出費は気にしない。
He has deep pockets, so he doesn't mind small expenses.
Means 'financial strength' or 'deep pockets' in a business sense.
その企業は資金力がある。
That company has deep pockets.
The hole at the corner or side of a billiard table.
Used as is in billiards terminology.
彼はボールをポケットに落とした。
He pocketed the ball.
While ポケット is the standard word for a clothing pocket, it is not used for idiomatic expressions like 'out of pocket' (expenses) or 'pocket of resistance'. Use the specific Japanese phrases provided.
交通費は自己負担です。
Travel expenses are out of pocket.
ポケット戦艦
pocket battleship