腕時計
udedokei[ɯ̟de̞do̞ke̞ː]
The English phrase 'wristwatch' is translated into Japanese as 腕時計 (udedokei).
The term is used to refer specifically to a timepiece that is worn on the wrist.
Meaning: watch worn on the wrist (noun)
Which one should you use?
While 腕時計 specifically refers to a wristwatch, the shorter form 時計 can refer to any timepiece, including wall clocks or desk clocks, depending on the context.
How do you pronounce it?
udedokei
Did you know?
- In Japanese, 腕 can mean both 'arm' and 'wrist'. Because of this, the word 腕時計 literally translates to 'arm-clock', regardless of where on the arm the watch is strapped.
- When describing the act of wearing a wristwatch, Japanese speakers use the verb つける (tsukeru), which also means 'to attach' or 'to fasten'. This highlights the physical connection of the device to the body.
- The word 時計 is composed of characters meaning 'measure' and 'time'. Originally, it referred to any device that measured time, including ancient water clocks and sundials.
Examples in context
- Ore no atarashii tokei, mita? (俺の新しい時計、見た？)Did you see my new wristwatch?
- Aitsu ga takai udedokei katte kita! (あいつが高い腕時計買ってきた！)He bought an expensive wristwatch!
- Are, kawaii fudōkei da ne! (あれ、可愛い腕時計だね！)That's a cute wristwatch, huh!
- 新しい腕時計を買いました。Atarashii udedokei o kaimashita.I bought a new wristwatch.
- その腕時計はとても綺麗ですね。Sono udedokei wa totemo kirei desu ne.That wristwatch is very beautiful.
- 父の腕時計は壊れました。Chichi no udedokei wa kowaremashita.My father's wristwatch broke.
Example conversation
Hina and Kenta are talking about a gift.
- 陽葵 Himari健太、この腕時計はどう思う？Kenta, kono udedokei wa dou omou?Kenta, what do you think of this wristwatch?
- 健太 Kentaデザインがとてもかっこいいと思うよ。Dezain ga totemo kakkoii to omou yo.I think the design is very cool.
- 陽葵 Himari本当？父へのプレゼントにしようかな。Hontou? Chichi e no purezento ni shiyou kana.Really? Maybe I'll get it as a present for my father.
- 健太 Kentaきっと喜んでくれると思うよ。Kitto yorokonde kureru to omou yo.I'm sure he will be happy with it.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “wristwatch” translations and entries 腕時計, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
