Translation guide
The English word "service" covers many distinct concepts. This guide breaks them down into practical meanings and shows how to express each naturally in Japanese.
Referring to the quality of service in a shop, restaurant, hotel, etc.
The most common and direct equivalent. Used for both the act of serving and the quality of service.
この店はサービスがいい。
This shop has good service.
サービスに満足しました。
I was satisfied with the service.
Refers specifically to the act of attending to customers, often used in business contexts.
接客態度が素晴らしい。
Their customer service attitude is wonderful.
Japanese-style hospitality, emphasizing wholehearted, selfless service. Often used in tourism and traditional contexts.
日本のおもてなしの心。
The spirit of Japanese hospitality.
Something given for free as a bonus or favor.
Commonly used for free extras, discounts, or complimentary items.
これはサービスです。
This is on the house.
サービスでデザートがついてきた。
Dessert came as a free extra.
A freebie or bonus item, often given with a purchase. More casual than サービス.
おまけをもらった。
I got a freebie.
A system or organization providing something for the public.
Used for public transport services, internet services, etc.
バスのサービスが終了した。
The bus service has ended.
インターネットサービスを契約する。
To sign up for an internet service.
Refers to a business or service operation, often used in official names.
水道事業
water service (utility)
A formal religious ceremony, especially in Christianity.
General term for a religious service or worship.
日曜日の礼拝に出席する。
To attend Sunday service.
Specifically a Catholic Mass.
ミサに行く。
To go to Mass.
Serving in the armed forces.
The act of hitting the ball to start a point in tennis.
Used in tennis and similar sports.
彼のサービスは速い。
His serve is fast.
Also common, especially in sports commentary.
サーブが入らない。
The serve doesn't go in.
Regular check-up or repair work on a vehicle or machine.
The English word "service" is used in many Japanese loanwords, but not always with the same nuance. For example, サービスエリア (service area) means a highway rest stop, not a service area in a store. サービス料 (service charge) is a common term in restaurants.
サービス料が10%かかります。
A 10% service charge applies.
サービス is a broad term for service in general. 接客 specifically refers to the act of serving customers face-to-face, often used in retail or hospitality training.
To request air conditioner servicing.