Translation guide
The English word "video" can refer to a recording, the medium, a video clip, or a video camera. In Japanese, different words are used depending on the context.
Referring to a recorded moving image, such as a movie, film, or video clip.
Most common word for a video, especially online or digital videos. Can refer to any moving image content.
この動画をYouTubeにアップロードした。
I uploaded this video to YouTube.
面白い動画を見つけた。
I found an interesting video.
Loanword from English. Often used for home videos, VHS tapes, or video recordings in a more traditional sense. Can also refer to video as a medium.
子どもの頃のビデオを見た。
I watched a video from my childhood.
このビデオはもう見られない。
This video can't be watched anymore.
Refers to video footage or imagery, often in a more technical or formal context, like film, TV, or surveillance.
監視カメラの映像を確認した。
I checked the surveillance video.
Referring to video as opposed to audio, text, or still images.
Used broadly for video content, including the format.
このサイトは動画の共有に使われる。
This site is used for sharing videos.
Often used in compound words like ビデオ通話 (video call) or ビデオ撮影 (video recording).
ビデオ通話をしましょう。
Let's have a video call.
Used in technical contexts, e.g., 映像信号 (video signal).
Referring to the device used to record videos.
Standard term for a video camera.
新しいビデオカメラを買った。
I bought a new video camera.
Often used when context makes it clear it's for video, e.g., on a smartphone.
Referring to a short video, often shared on social media.
Works for any length, including short clips.
その動画はたったの10秒だ。
That video is only 10 seconds long.
Loanword for 'clip', often used for short video excerpts.
動画 is the most common and general term for digital video. ビデオ often carries a nuance of older recording media (VHS) or specific compounds. 映像 is more formal/technical and refers to the visual footage itself.
When talking about YouTube videos, social media clips, or any digital video content, 動画 is the safest and most natural choice.
映像信号が途切れた。
The video signal was interrupted.
I took a video with my smartphone camera.
映画のクリップを見せてくれた。
He showed me a clip from the movie.