Translation guide
In Japanese, the most common word for trousers/pants is ズボン, but several other terms exist depending on style, formality, and context.
The learner wants to refer to trousers in everyday conversation.
The learner specifically means denim jeans.
The learner wants to refer to short trousers.
The word パンツ can mean either trousers or underpants. In casual conversation, it often means underpants, especially when used alone. To avoid confusion, use ズボン for trousers unless the context is very clear.
パンツを脱いだ。
I took off my underpants. (likely meaning)
ズボン is the safest, most neutral word for trousers. パンツ is casual and can be ambiguous. スラックス is formal and refers to dress trousers. Use ズボン in most situations.
I bought new trousers.
そのズボン、似合ってるよ。
Those trousers look good on you.
Can mean trousers/pants, but also means underpants. Context usually makes it clear, but be careful. More common in casual speech and among younger people.
Can be ambiguous; in some contexts it clearly means underpants. When in doubt, use ズボン.
今日は新しいパンツを履いてきた。
I'm wearing new trousers today.
Refers specifically to dress trousers, often part of a suit. More formal and less common in everyday speech.
スーツに合うスラックスを探しています。
I'm looking for dress trousers to go with my suit.
The standard word for jeans. Also written as ジーパン in casual contexts.
ジーンズを履いて出かけた。
I went out wearing jeans.
A more casual, slightly dated term for jeans. Still understood, but ジーンズ is more common.
ジーパンが破れた。
My jeans ripped.
Literally 'half trousers', the standard word for shorts. Used for both casual and sports shorts.
夏は半ズボンが楽だ。
Shorts are comfortable in summer.
Loanword from English 'short pants'. Common in fashion contexts.
ショートパンツを履いてビーチに行った。
I wore shorts to the beach.