スパム
supamu[sɨpa̠mɯ̟]
The English phrase 'spam' is translated into Japanese as スパム (supamu).
スパム refers to undesired electronic content. While it can be used on its own, it is very common to append the word メール (mēru) to the end to form スパムメール, which specifically means 'spam email'.
Meaning: undesired electronic content (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
While you can use スパム as a standalone noun, appending メール to create スパムメール is a standard way to specify that you are talking about electronic mail.
How do you pronounce it?
supamu
Did you know?
- While スパム refers to digital junk, the actual canned meat 'SPAM' is incredibly popular in Okinawa, where it is a staple food and a symbol of American influence.
- In Japanese, the word 迷惑 (meiwaku) is often used alongside スパムメール to describe the specific feeling of being troubled or inconvenienced by the unwanted messages.
- The word スパム is written in katakana, the script used for foreign loanwords, signaling to any reader that the concept originated outside of Japan.
Examples in context
- スパムはうっとうしい。Spam is annoying.This sentence is useful for expressing that スパム is annoying.Tatoeba #11821536 by small_snow, translation #10143593 by ddnktr
- スパムフォルダを確認してみて。Look in your spam folder.This sentence is useful for suggesting that one check their スパム folder.Tatoeba #8831686 by small_snow, translation #6938195 by Eccles17
- 大量のスパムメールが届いた。Tairyou no supamu meeru ga todoita.A large amount of spam emails arrived.
Example conversation
Kenta is showing Himari an email on his phone.
- 陽葵 Himariこれ、スパムかな？Kore, supamu kana?Is this spam?
- 健太 Kentaたぶん、スパムだよ。Tabun, supamu dayo.It's probably spam.
- 陽葵 Himari最近多いよね。Saikin ooi yo ne.There have been a lot lately, right?
- 健太 Kenta本当に困るなあ。Hontou ni komaru naa.It's really a nuisance.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry スパム, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
