Translation guide
Physical comedy involving exaggerated, often violent actions like falling, hitting, or clumsy mishaps. In Japanese, this is most commonly referred to as ドタバタ喜劇 or simply スラップスティック.
Referring to the genre or style of physical comedy with exaggerated, often violent actions.
Referring to the actual device used in theater or film to simulate a loud slapping sound.
The most common Japanese term for slapstick comedy. ドタバタ is an onomatopoeia for the sound of running around or falling, and 喜劇 means comedy.
彼はドタバタ喜劇の俳優として有名だ。
He is famous as a slapstick comedy actor.
The direct loanword from English. Commonly understood, especially among younger people or in media contexts.
この映画はスラップスティックの要素が強い。
This movie has strong slapstick elements.
Often used as a shorter, more casual way to refer to slapstick or chaotic physical comedy. Can also describe a noisy, chaotic situation.
あのコントはどたばたが面白かった。
That sketch had funny slapstick.
The same loanword is used for the prop itself. Context usually makes it clear.
舞台でスラップスティックを使って音を出した。
They used a slapstick on stage to make the sound.