Translation guide
The English word 'supplement' can refer to dietary supplements, supplementary materials in books, or the act of adding something extra. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each meaning.
A pill, powder, or liquid taken to add nutrients to the diet.
The most common and general term for dietary supplements in Japanese. Often shortened to サプリ in casual speech.
毎日ビタミンのサプリメントを飲んでいます。
I take vitamin supplements every day.
Casual abbreviation of サプリメント, very common in everyday conversation.
疲れたときはサプリを飲むよ。
When I'm tired, I take supplements.
Formal term for dietary supplement, literally 'nutritional supplementary food'. Used in official contexts or product labels.
この栄養補助食品はカルシウムが豊富です。
This dietary supplement is rich in calcium.
An extra section added to a document, such as an appendix or additional information.
Refers to supplementary information or an addition that fills in gaps. Often used in academic or formal writing.
この点については補足が必要です。
This point needs a supplement (additional explanation).
Appendix or supplement attached to a book or magazine. Can also refer to freebies included with magazines.
Addendum or supplement to a book, usually published separately after the original. Very formal and literary.
To add something extra in order to improve or complete it.
General verb meaning to supplement, compensate for, or make up for a deficiency.
足りない栄養をサプリで補う。
Supplement missing nutrients with supplements.
To replenish or supplement something that has been used up or is lacking. Often used for supplies, staff, or resources.
水分を定期的に補充してください。
Please supplement fluids regularly.
サプリメント is almost exclusively used for dietary supplements. For supplementary materials in books, use 補足 or 付録.
This book comes with a map supplement (appendix).
A supplement to this dictionary was published.
To add something extra, often in a more casual or physical sense. Can be used for adding information.
説明に一言付け加えた。
I supplemented the explanation with a brief comment.