Translation guide
A medical procedure involving cutting into the body to repair, remove, or replace tissue. In Japanese, the most common term is 手術 (shujutsu), but there are more specific terms depending on context.
手術
surgical operation
The general term for a surgical procedure, used in everyday conversation and medical contexts.
The standard word for 'surgical operation' or 'surgery'. Used for any kind of operation, from minor to major.
来週、手術を受ける予定です。
I'm scheduled to have an operation next week.
彼は心臓の手術に成功した。
He underwent successful heart surgery.
Abbreviation of 'operation', used in casual or medical staff conversation. Common in hospitals.
明日オペが入ってるんだ。
I have an operation scheduled for tomorrow.
More precise terms for particular kinds of surgical operations.
Literally 'surgical operation', emphasizing the surgical aspect. Often used in formal or medical contexts.
外科手術が必要な場合もあります。
In some cases, surgical operation is necessary.
Refers to the act of performing surgery, specifically wielding the scalpel. Used for the surgeon's action.
Referring to the surgical operation as a scheduled event or the procedure itself.
To perform an operation (from the surgeon's perspective) or to have an operation (from the patient's perspective, though 受ける is more common for patients).
医者が手術をしている。
The doctor is performing an operation.
To undergo an operation (patient's perspective).
彼は手術を受けるのを怖がっている。
He is afraid of having the operation.
手術 is the standard term used in all situations. オペ is a casual abbreviation often used among medical staff or in informal settings. Patients may also use オペ casually, but 手術 is safer for learners.
手術の説明を受けました。
I received an explanation of the surgery.
オペ室はどこですか？
Where is the operating room?
執刀医はベテランの外科医だった。
The operating surgeon was a veteran surgeon.
Surgery involving an incision. Used when emphasizing the cutting aspect.
切開手術により腫瘍を摘出した。
The tumor was removed by open surgery.