Translation guide
The English word "stout" has two main meanings: a type of dark beer, and describing a person as somewhat fat or heavily built. This guide focuses on the beer meaning, which is the most common use for learners, and the physical description meaning, which is less common and can be tricky due to politeness.
Referring to the dark, top-fermented beer.
The standard loanword for 'stout' beer. Widely understood in bars and restaurants.
Describing a person as somewhat fat, heavily built, or thickset.
Means 'fat' or 'overweight'. It is direct and can be impolite if used to describe someone directly. Safer in descriptive contexts or when talking about oneself.
Avoid using this to describe someone directly unless you are very close, as it can be rude. Use euphemisms or indirect expressions instead.
彼は少し太った体型だ。
He has a somewhat stout build.
In Japanese culture, directly commenting on someone's weight or body shape is often considered rude. When describing someone as 'stout', it's safer to use euphemisms like がっしりした (sturdy) or to describe the body part indirectly, or simply avoid the topic unless you are very close to the person.
スタウトを一杯ください。
A pint of stout, please.
Literally 'black beer'. A common generic term for dark beers including stout, but not specific to stout. Useful when the exact style is not important.
この黒ビールは濃厚でおいしい。
This dark beer is rich and delicious.
Means 'sturdy', 'solidly built', or 'thickset'. More positive connotation than 'fat', implying strength and robustness. Suitable for describing a person's build without being offensive.
がっしりした体格の男性。
A man with a stout build.
Means 'stocky', 'dumpy', or 'stout'. Often used for short and thick body types. Can be slightly negative or comical.
ずんぐりした体型の人。
A person with a stout figure.