モバイルバッテリー
mobairu battarī
In Japanese, the English phrase 'power bank' is expressed as モバイルバッテリー (mobairu battarī).
The term is used for any portable external battery, whether it is a small one for a phone or a larger one for a laptop.
What does it mean word for word?
The term is a loanword from English, combining 'mobile' and 'battery'.
Which one should you use?
While English speakers often say 'power bank', Japanese speakers almost exclusively use the term モバイルバッテリー for this device.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In certain parts of Japan, the term モバイル充電器 may be used instead of モバイルバッテリー.
How do you pronounce it?
mobairu battarī
Did you know?
- If you ask for a 'power bank' using the English word 'power' in a shop, you might be misunderstood. In Japanese, 'power' (パワー) usually refers to physical strength or political influence rather than electricity.
- In Japan, you can rent a モバイルバッテリー from small automated kiosks found in convenience stores and train stations, which you can return to any other kiosk in the city.
- In Japan, it is common to see モバイルバッテリー sold with extremely cute 'kawaii' character themes, such as Pokémon or Sanrio, making them fashion accessories.
Examples in context
- モバイルバッテリーを持っていますか？Mobairu batterii o motte imasu ka?Do you have a power bank?
- 外出するときはモバイルバッテリーが必要です。Gaishutsu suru toki wa mobairu batterii ga hitsuyou desu.A power bank is necessary when going out.
- このモバイルバッテリーはとても軽いです。Kono mobairu batterii wa totemo karui desu.This power bank is very light.
Example conversation
Misaki asks Hiroto for help because her phone is dying.
- 美咲 Misaki大翔、モバイルバッテリーを貸してくれる？Hiroto, mobairu batterii o kashite kureru?Hiroto, can you lend me your power bank?
- 大翔 Hirotoいいよ、充電器も必要かな？Ii yo, juudenki mo hitsuyou kana?Sure, do you need a charger too?
- 美咲 Misakiありがとう！助かるよ。Arigatou! Tasukaru yo.Thanks! You're a lifesaver.
- 大翔 Hiroto気にしないで。Ki ni shinaide.Don't mention it.
