Slippers are a common footwear item used indoors in many cultures, including Japan. Knowing how to say “slipper” in Japanese can be useful when visiting someone’s home or staying at traditional Japanese accommodations called ryokans. In this guide, we will explore the formal and informal ways to express “slipper” in Japanese, offering tips, examples, and regional variations where necessary.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Slipper in Japanese
In formal situations, it is important to use polite and respectful language. When referring to slippers in a formal context, the most appropriate term to use is “uwagutsu” (上履き). This term refers to indoor footwear, including slippers, worn over regular shoes to keep the floors clean. Keep in mind that “uwagutsu” can also refer to other types of indoor shoes, depending on the context.
Formal: 上履き (uwagutsu)
Informal Ways to Say Slipper in Japanese
In casual or informal contexts, the word “slipper” can be expressed using the term “surippa” (スリッパ). This term is widely used among all age groups in everyday conversation. It is important to note that “surippa” is derived from the English word “slipper” and has been adopted into the Japanese language.
Informal: スリッパ (surippa)
Regional Variations
While the terms “uwagutsu” and “surippa” are understood throughout Japan, there might be slight regional differences in the way slippers are referred to. Here are a few examples:
Kansai Region:
In the Kansai region, including cities like Osaka and Kyoto, the term used for slippers is “patan” (パタン). This term derived from the sound made when wearing slippers and emphasizes the onomatopoeic nature of the Japanese language.
Hokkaido:
In Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan, slippers are often referred to as “supa” (スパ). This informal term is commonly used in everyday life.
Okinawa:
In Okinawa, the tropical island prefecture, slippers are known as “kuuru” (クール). This term is unique to Okinawa and differs from the standard Japanese term “surippa.”
Tips and Examples
Here are some tips and examples to help you correctly use the word “slipper” in Japanese:
Tips:
- When entering someone’s house or a traditional Japanese establishment, look for a designated area where you are expected to remove your shoes. This is where you will find slippers to wear indoors.
- Always take off your shoes before stepping on tatami mats, as it is considered respectful and essential to maintain cleanliness.
- When unsure, it is best to follow the lead of those around you. Observe locals and mimic their behavior when it comes to footwear etiquette.
Examples:
1. Formal example:
A: すみません、上履きをお借りできますか？
B: はい、どうぞ。こちらが上履きです。
A: ありがとうございます。A: Sumimasen, uwagutsu o kashikari dekimasu ka?
B: Hai, douzo. Kochira ga uwagutsu desu.
A: Arigatou gozaimasu.A: Excuse me, may I borrow slippers?
B: Yes, here they are.
A: Thank you.
2. Informal example:
A: スリッパを貸してもらえる？
B: ああ、そこにあるよ。
A: ありがとう。A: Surippa o kashite moraeru?
B: Aa, soko ni aru yo.
A: Arigatou.A: Can I borrow slippers?
B: Yeah, they’re over there.
A: Thank you.
Remember to adapt your language based on the situation and level of formality. With these terms and examples, you’ll be able to confidently communicate your need for slippers in Japanese.
