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A2 noun #4,500 most common 10 min read

水着

mizugi Top 4,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 水着 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 水着 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should recognize '水着' (mizugi) as the word for a swimsuit. You will mostly use it in very simple sentences to identify the object or express possession. For example, 'Kore wa mizugi desu' (This is a swimsuit) or 'Mizugi ga arimasu' (There is a swimsuit). You should learn the kanji '水' (water), which is a fundamental A1 kanji, and '着' (to wear), which you will also see in 'kimono'. At this stage, focus on the basic 'Noun + desu' or 'Noun + o kaimasu' (buy a noun) structures. You might hear this word in basic travel dialogues, such as asking where a shop is. Remembering that 'mizu' means water will help you never forget this word.

At the A2 level, you can start using '水着' in more practical contexts, such as planning a trip or shopping. You should be able to use verbs like 'kiru' (to wear), 'nugu' (to take off), and 'wasureru' (to forget) with 'mizugi'. For example, 'Ashita wa mizugi o motte kite kudasai' (Please bring your swimsuit tomorrow). You should also be able to describe the swimsuit simply, using colors or basic adjectives like 'kawaii' (cute) or 'atarashii' (new). At this level, you might encounter the word in weather reports or seasonal advertisements during the summer. You should also be aware of the difference between 'mizugi' and 'fuku' (clothes) in general.

By B1, you should be comfortable using '水着' in complex sentences that include reasons or conditions. For example, 'Mizugi o motte inai node, puuru ni hairemasen' (Because I don't have a swimsuit, I can't enter the pool). You will also learn more specific types of swimwear, such as 'bikini' or 'one-piece'. You should be able to discuss preferences and styles, and use the word in the context of Japanese social norms, such as knowing that swimsuits are usually not allowed in onsens. You might also start using the compound 'mizugi-uriba' (swimsuit sales floor) when navigating a department store. Your ability to conjugate verbs related to 'mizugi' (like 'kigaeru' - to change) should be fluent.

At the B2 level, you can use '水着' in discussions about trends, sports, or cultural differences. You might talk about 'kyoei-yo mizugi' (competitive swimwear) and the technology behind it, or debate the 'mizugi' culture in Japan compared to your home country. You should understand more nuanced terms like 'rashu gaado' (rash guard) and how they are used in Japan for sun protection. You can read magazine articles or blog posts about 'summer essentials' where 'mizugi' is a central theme. Your vocabulary will expand to include related terms like 'nureru' (to get wet) or 'kawaku' (to dry) in relation to the swimsuit's material.

At the C1 level, you can understand '水着' in broader socio-cultural and historical contexts. This includes the evolution of the 'school swimsuit' (sukumizu) and its place in Japanese pop culture, or the marketing strategies used by companies like San-ai for their annual swimsuit collections. You can understand puns or metaphors involving the word, and you are comfortable with technical terms related to textile manufacturing for swimwear. You can also navigate sensitive topics, such as the 'gravure' industry's use of 'mizugi' photography, with appropriate vocabulary and register. Your understanding of the word is no longer just about the object, but about its implications in Japanese society.

At the C2 level, you have a near-native grasp of '水着' in all its forms. You can appreciate high-level literature or academic papers that might use the concept of 'mizugi' to discuss Japanese modernity, gender roles, or the history of leisure in the Showa era. You can understand the subtle differences in tone between 'suieigi', 'mizugi', and 'kaipan' in literature to discern a character's background or the author's intent. You can effortlessly switch between formal athletic terminology and casual slang. For you, 'mizugi' is a word with deep layers of meaning, encompassing everything from childhood school memories to the complexities of modern Japanese media and fashion industries.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

水着 in 30 Seconds

Mizugi is the universal Japanese word for any type of swimwear, from bikinis to trunks.
The word literally means 'water wear' (水 mizu + 着 gi).
It is a gender-neutral term used in both casual and formal contexts.
Used with verbs like 'kiru' (to wear) and 'kigaeru' (to change).

The Japanese word 水着 (みずぎ - mizugi) is a compound noun that literally translates to 'water wear.' It is the standard term used to describe any form of swimwear, bathing suits, or swimming trunks. In the context of Japanese culture, this word carries a strong association with the summer season, school physical education classes, and the distinct beach culture that thrives during the humid months of July and August. Unlike English, which often distinguishes between 'swimsuit' (usually feminine) and 'swimming trunks' (masculine), mizugi is a gender-neutral umbrella term that covers everything from a professional athlete's racing suit to a child's colorful one-piece.

Etymology: The word is composed of two kanji: 水 (mizu), meaning 'water', and 着 (gi/ki), which comes from the verb 'kiru' (to wear) and signifies clothing or garments. This logical pairing makes it one of the easiest vocabulary words for beginners to memorize.
Seasonal Context: Japan's 'Umi no Hi' (Marine Day) in July marks the unofficial start of the swimming season. During this time, the word mizugi dominates advertising, television segments, and casual conversation as people prepare for trips to the coast or public pools.

新しい水着を買わなければなりません。(I have to buy a new swimsuit.)

In a social sense, mizugi is also tied to the concept of 'Sukumizu' (school swimsuits), which are the standard-issue blue or black suits worn by students during mandatory swimming lessons. This specific type of mizugi has become a recognizable cultural icon in Japanese media. Furthermore, when visiting a traditional Japanese onsen (hot spring), it is vital to know that mizugi are generally forbidden; bathing is done completely nude. However, in modern 'spa resorts' or mixed-gender water parks, wearing a mizugi is required, making the distinction very important for tourists.

この水着はデザインがとても可愛いです。(The design of this swimsuit is very cute.)

Gender Neutrality: While English speakers might say 'bikini' or 'trunks', a Japanese person will simply say 'mizugi' for both, unless they need to be specific about the style.

The versatility of the word means it is used in fashion magazines, sports reporting, and family planning for summer vacations. It is a word that evokes feelings of sunshine, relaxation, and the sound of waves. Whether you are talking about a professional swimmer's high-tech suit or a toddler's ruffled swim dress, mizugi is the term you will reach for 99% of the time in Japan.

海に行くのに、水着を忘れました。(I forgot my swimsuit, even though I'm going to the sea.)

デパートの水着売り場はどこですか？(Where is the swimsuit section in the department store?)

彼は青い水着を着ています。(He is wearing a blue swimsuit.)

Cultural Nuance: In Japanese schools, the 'mizugi' is not just for fun; swimming is a mandatory part of the curriculum in most elementary and junior high schools, emphasizing the word's practical and educational associations.

Using 水着 (mizugi) in sentences requires understanding the basic Japanese verbs for dressing and undressing. Because a swimsuit is worn on the body like a shirt or a dress, the verb kiru (着る) is used for putting it on, and nugu (脱ぐ) is used for taking it off. If you are changing into a swimsuit, the compound verb kigaeru (着替える) is essential. Grammatically, mizugi acts as a standard noun and can take various particles like o (direct object), ga (subject), or no (possessive/descriptive).

Action Verbs: Use 'mizugi o kiru' (put on a swimsuit), 'mizugi o nugu' (take off a swimsuit), and 'mizugi ni kigaeru' (change into a swimsuit).

更衣室で水着に着替えてください。(Please change into your swimsuit in the locker room.)

When describing a swimsuit, you can use adjectives before the word. For example, 'kawaii mizugi' (cute swimsuit), 'kakkoii mizugi' (cool/stylish swimsuit), or 'hayari no mizugi' (trendy swimsuit). In a shopping context, you might ask for specific sizes or colors. Japanese retailers often categorize mizugi by gender and age, so you will see 'josei-yo mizugi' (women's swimwear), 'dansei-yo mizugi' (men's swimwear), and 'kodomo-yo mizugi' (children's swimwear) in department stores.

彼女は赤いビキニの水着を着ています。(She is wearing a red bikini swimsuit.)

Another common sentence pattern involves possession or the need for the item. 'Mizugi o motte imasu ka?' (Do you have a swimsuit?) is a standard question when planning a pool outing. If you've forgotten yours, you might say 'Mizugi o wasuremashita' (I forgot my swimsuit). In formal contexts, such as a school notice, you might see 'Mizugi o jisan shite kudasai' (Please bring your swimsuit with you).

Shopping Phrases: 'Mizugi o sagashite imasu' (I am looking for a swimsuit) or 'Mizugi no shichaku wa dekimasu ka?' (Can I try on the swimsuit?).

この水着はサイズが合いません。(This swimsuit doesn't fit.)

In competitive sports contexts, the word might be modified. 'Kyoei-yo mizugi' (competitive swimsuit) refers to the high-performance gear worn by athletes. In these sentences, the focus shifts from fashion to functionality, such as 'Kono mizugi wa teiko ga sukunai desu' (This swimsuit has low resistance/drag).

来週のプールのために、新しい水着を準備しました。(I prepared a new swimsuit for next week's pool trip.)

Describing Appearance: 'Mizugi-sugata' (mizugi appearance/figure) is a common noun used to describe someone appearing in a swimsuit, often used in photography or media.

The word 水着 (mizugi) is most frequently heard during the 'Natsu' (summer) months. If you are in Japan during June, July, or August, you will hear it in department store announcements, see it on giant billboards in Shibuya or Shinjuku, and hear it in every other television commercial for sunblock, soft drinks, or travel agencies. The 'Mizugi Corner' becomes a central feature of retail spaces during this time.

At the Beach or Pool: Lifeguards or pool staff might say: 'Mizugi o chakuyo shite kudasai' (Please wear a swimsuit). You will also hear friends discussing their outfits before heading to the 'Kaisuiyokujou' (swimming beach).

すみません、この近くに水着を売っている店はありますか？(Excuse me, is there a shop that sells swimsuits near here?)

In the world of Japanese entertainment, 'Mizugi' is a keyword for 'Gravure' idols and celebrities. Magazines often feature 'Mizugi Tokushu' (Swimsuit Specials). While this is a specific niche, it means the word is ubiquitous in convenience store magazine racks. On a more everyday level, parents will frequently use the word when talking to their children: 'Mizugi wa baggu ni ireta?' (Did you put your swimsuit in your bag?).

学校の水着に名前を書きましたか？(Did you write your name on your school swimsuit?)

Schools are a major 'hearing zone' for this word. Every year, students are required to bring their 'mizugi' for swimming class. Teachers will give instructions like 'Mizugi ni kigaete, puru-side ni shugo!' (Change into your swimsuits and gather at the poolside!). Because of this, almost every Japanese person associates the word with the smell of chlorine and the sound of a whistle.

In Anime and Manga: The 'Mizugi Kai' (Swimsuit Episode) is a famous trope where the characters go to the beach. You will hear the word repeatedly in these episodes as characters react to each other's outfits.

今年の水着のトレンドはチェック柄です。(This year's swimsuit trend is checkered patterns.)

One of the most common mistakes English speakers make with 水着 (mizugi) is applying it to the wrong context—specifically, traditional Japanese baths. In many Western countries, it is normal to wear a swimsuit in a sauna or hot tub. In Japan, wearing a mizugi in a traditional onsen or sento is a major etiquette faux pas. Learners often ask, 'Mizugi o kite mo ii desu ka?' (Is it okay to wear a swimsuit?), and the answer is almost always a polite but firm 'No'.

Vocabulary Confusion: Don't confuse 'mizugi' with 'wetto suutsu' (wetsuit). While both are used in water, a 'mizugi' is for swimming and sunbathing, whereas a 'wetto suutsu' is for surfing or diving in cold water.

× 温泉で水着を着ます。(Incorrect: I wear a swimsuit at the onsen.)

Another mistake involves the verb choice. In English, we 'put on' a swimsuit. In Japanese, because you step into most swimsuits and they cover the torso, you must use kiru (着る). Beginners sometimes mistakenly use haku (履く), which is only for items worn on the lower half of the body (like pants or shoes). While haku might technically work for men's trunks, kiru or the general mi ni tsukeru is safer for the category as a whole. However, specifically for 'swim trunks' (saafu pantsu), haku is actually correct, leading to confusion for learners.

× 水着を履きます (Usually incorrect for women's suits, though okay for men's trunks).

Phonetically, learners sometimes mispronounce mizugi as 'mizuki'. While Mizuki is a common Japanese name, the 'gi' in mizugi is voiced. Saying 'mizuki' might lead to a brief moment of confusion where the listener thinks you are talking about a person named Mizuki rather than your swimwear.

Kanji Mistake: Do not write '水気' (mizuke), which means moisture or dampness. The second kanji must be '着' (clothing).

Lastly, remember that mizugi is a noun. You cannot say 'mizugi-i' as an adjective. If you want to say something is 'swimsuit-like', you would use 'mizugi no you na'. Using the word correctly shows a good grasp of basic Japanese noun-verb pairings and cultural awareness regarding where swimwear is appropriate.

While 水着 (mizugi) is the most common term, several other words exist depending on the style, function, and setting. Understanding these nuances will help you sound more like a native speaker and allow you to navigate specific situations like sports competitions or fashion shopping more effectively.

水泳着 (Suieigi): This is a more formal version of 'mizugi'. It is often used in official documents, school handbooks, or when referring specifically to the functional aspect of the clothing for the sport of swimming. If you are joining a gym with a pool, the rules might refer to 'suieigi'.
競泳用水着 (Kyoei-yo Mizugi): This specifically refers to 'competitive swimwear'. These are the high-performance, tight-fitting suits used by athletes like those in the Olympics. They are designed for speed and reduced drag, distinct from 'fashion mizugi'.

彼は競泳用水着を専門に扱っています。(He specializes in competitive swimwear.)

Loanwords (Gairaigo) are also very common in the world of swimwear. For example, 'Bikini' (ビキニ) is used exactly like in English. For men, 'Saafu Pantsu' (surf pants) or 'Kaipan' (an abbreviation of 'kaisui-pan', meaning sea pants) are very common terms for swim trunks. 'Kaipan' is a very casual, slightly old-fashioned but still widely understood term used among men.

海パンを持ってくるのを忘れました。(I forgot to bring my swim trunks.)

スクール水着 (Sukuuru Mizugi): Often shortened to 'Sukumizu', this refers to the standard navy blue or black swimsuits used in Japanese schools. It has a very specific cultural connotation and is rarely used to describe adult fashion swimwear.

Lastly, 'Wetto Suutsu' (wetsuits) and 'Rasshu Gaado' (rash guards) are related items you will see in the same section of a store. While a 'mizugi' is the core item, these are considered accessories or specialized gear. If you are going snorkeling, you might say: 'Mizugiの上にラッシュガードを着ます' (I will wear a rash guard over my swimsuit).

ワンピースの水着を探しています。(I am looking for a one-piece swimsuit.)

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

Before the Meiji era, the concept of a 'mizugi' didn't really exist in Japan as people either bathed nude in rivers/seas or wore simple loincloths (fundoshi). The modern word and the garment itself evolved alongside Western influence in the late 19th century.

Pronunciation Guide

UK mi.zu.ɡi

US mi.zu.ɡi

Japanese is a pitch-accent language. In 'mizugi', the pitch starts low on 'mi' and rises on 'zu', staying high on 'gi' (LH-H).

Rhymes With

Tsugi (Next) Mugi (Wheat/Barley) Kugi (Nail) Sugi (Cedar) Nagi (Calm) Hagi (Bush clover) Shigi (Snipe bird) Kagi (Key)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'gi' as 'ji' (it should be a hard G).
Elongating the 'u' sound too much (it should be short).
Confusing it with 'mizuki' (unvoiced K instead of voiced G).
Stressing the first syllable like English 'MI-zu-gi'.
Pronouncing 'mizu' and 'gi' as two separate words with a pause.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The kanji are very basic (Water + Wear). Most learners know them early on.

Writing 3/5

Writing '着' can be slightly tricky due to the number of strokes, but it's common.

Speaking 1/5

Pronunciation is straightforward with no difficult clusters.

Listening 2/5

Easy to recognize, but don't confuse it with names like 'Mizuki'.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

水 (Water) 着る (To wear) 海 (Sea) プール (Pool) 夏 (Summer)

Learn Next

着替える (To change clothes) 海水浴 (Sea bathing) 日焼け (Sunburn) タオル (Towel) サンダル (Sandals)

Advanced

流体力学 (Fluid dynamics) 撥水性 (Water repellency) 露出度 (Degree of exposure) 更衣室 (Changing room) 浮力 (Buoyancy)

Grammar to Know

Using 'Kiru' for torso clothing.

水着を着る。

Using 'Haku' for leg clothing (men's trunks).

海パンを履く。

Compound nouns with 'Uriba'.

水着売り場。

The particle 'Ni' for changing into something.

水着に着替える。

The state of wearing using 'Te-iru'.

水着を着ている。

Examples by Level

これは私の水着です。

This is my swimsuit.

Possessive particle 'no' connects 'watashi' and 'mizugi'.

水着はどこですか？

Where is the swimsuit?

The particle 'wa' marks the topic 'mizugi'.

水着を買います。

I will buy a swimsuit.

Direct object particle 'o' used with the verb 'kaimasu'.

青い水着が好きです。

I like blue swimsuits.

Adjective 'aoi' modifies the noun 'mizugi'.

水着があります。

There is a swimsuit.

Particle 'ga' marks the subject of existence 'arimasu'.

これは水着じゃありません。

This is not a swimsuit.

Negative form 'ja arimasen' of the copula 'desu'.

水着は安いです。

The swimsuit is cheap.

Adjective 'yasui' follows the topic 'mizugi'.

水着を着ます。

I put on a swimsuit.

Verb 'kiru' (to wear) is used for upper body/torso items.

新しい水着が欲しいです。

I want a new swimsuit.

Adjective 'hoshii' (want) takes the particle 'ga'.

海に行くので、水着を持って行きます。

Because I'm going to the sea, I'll take a swimsuit.

Conjunction 'node' indicates a reason.

水着を忘れました。

I forgot my swimsuit.

Past tense verb 'wasuremashita'.

この水着は少し大きいです。

This swimsuit is a little big.

Adverb 'sukoshi' modifies the adjective 'ookii'.

デパートで水着を売っています。

They are selling swimsuits at the department store.

Continuous form 'utte imasu' shows ongoing state/action.

水着に着替えてください。

Please change into your swimsuit.

The verb 'kigaeru' (to change clothes) uses particle 'ni' for the result.

可愛い水着をたくさん見ました。

I saw many cute swimsuits.

Adverb 'takusan' modifies the verb 'mimashita'.

水着は鞄の中にあります。

The swimsuit is inside the bag.

Location markers 'no naka ni' used with 'arimasu'.

水着を持っていないなら、貸してあげますよ。

If you don't have a swimsuit, I'll lend you one.

Conditional form 'nara' and 'te ageru' (do something for someone).

どの水着が一番似合うと思いますか？

Which swimsuit do you think suits me best?

Question word 'dono' and the verb 'niau' (to suit/look good).

水着を洗って、ベランダに干しました。

I washed the swimsuit and hung it to dry on the balcony.

Te-form used to chain actions: 'arat-te' (wash and...).

このプールでは水着を着なければなりません。

In this pool, you must wear a swimsuit.

Must-do form: 'nakereba narimasen'.

水着のサイズを確認したほうがいいですよ。

You should check the swimsuit size.

Advice form: 'ta hou ga ii' (it's better to...).

水着を着たまま、温泉に入ってはいけません。

You must not enter the onsen while wearing a swimsuit.

'Mama' indicates a continuing state, 'te wa ikemasen' indicates prohibition.

去年買った水着がもう小さくなりました。

The swimsuit I bought last year has already become too small.

Relative clause: 'kyonen katta' modifies 'mizugi'.

水着売り場は、この上の階にあります。

The swimsuit section is on the floor above this one.

Compound noun 'mizugi-uriba'.

最近は、日焼けを防ぐためにラッシュガード付きの水着が人気です。

Recently, swimsuits with rash guards are popular for preventing sunburn.

'Tame ni' indicates purpose (to prevent).

競技用の水着は、水の抵抗を減らすように設計されています。

Competitive swimsuits are designed to reduce water resistance.

Passive voice 'sekkei sarete imasu' (is designed).

彼女は水着のモデルとして活躍しています。

She is active as a swimsuit model.

'Toshite' means 'in the capacity of/as'.

水着のデザインだけでなく、機能性も重視すべきです。

One should emphasize functionality, not just the design of the swimsuit.

'Dake de naku... mo' (not only... but also).

冬でも、温水プールに行くなら水着が必要です。

Even in winter, if you're going to a heated pool, you need a swimsuit.

'Demo' (even) and 'nara' (if).

水着の素材によって、乾きやすさが全然違います。

The ease of drying differs completely depending on the material of the swimsuit.

'Ni yotte' means 'depending on'.

学校指定の水着は、昔からほとんどデザインが変わっていません。

The design of school-designated swimsuits has hardly changed for a long time.

Adverb 'hotondo' used with a negative verb.

彼女は新しい水着を着て、鏡の前でポーズをとった。

She put on her new swimsuit and struck a pose in front of the mirror.

Te-form used for sequential actions.

水着の広告が街中に溢れると、夏の訪れを実感します。

When swimsuit advertisements flood the city, I really feel the arrival of summer.

The verb 'afureru' (to overflow/flood) used metaphorically.

日本の「スクール水着」という文化は、海外の人から見ると独特かもしれません。

The Japanese culture of 'school swimsuits' might seem unique from an outsider's perspective.

The phrase 'kara miru to' (from the perspective of).

水着のトレンドは、社会の価値観やライフスタイルの変化を反映しています。

Swimsuit trends reflect changes in societal values and lifestyles.

The verb 'han'ei suru' (to reflect).

高性能な水着が記録更新に寄与していることは否定できません。

It cannot be denied that high-performance swimsuits contribute to breaking records.

Double negative 'hitei dekimasen' used for emphasis.

水着姿を人に見られるのが恥ずかしいと感じる日本人は少なくありません。

There are quite a few Japanese people who feel embarrassed to be seen in a swimsuit.

Passive form 'mirareru' (to be seen).

そのブランドは、環境に配慮したリサイクル素材の水着を展開しています。

That brand is developing swimsuits made from eco-friendly recycled materials.

The verb 'tenkai suru' (to expand/develop/roll out).

水着の着心地は、裁断技術の精度に大きく左右されます。

The comfort of a swimsuit is greatly influenced by the precision of the cutting technology.

'Sayuu sareru' (to be influenced/governed by).

かつて、水着は道徳的な観点から厳しく規制されていた時期もありました。

In the past, there was a time when swimsuits were strictly regulated from a moral perspective.

Adverb 'katsute' (once/in the past).

水着という極限まで削ぎ落とされた衣服において、美しさと機能性の両立は至難の業だ。

In a garment like a swimsuit, which has been stripped down to the absolute limit, balancing beauty and functionality is a Herculean task.

The expression 'shinan no waza' (an extremely difficult task).

メディアにおける水着の表象は、ジェンダーバイアスを助長しているとの批判も根強い。

Criticism remains strong that the representation of swimsuits in the media promotes gender bias.

The noun 'hyoushou' (representation/symbolism).

最新の流体力学を応用した水着の登場は、スポーツの公平性という議論を再燃させた。

The emergence of swimsuits applying the latest fluid dynamics has reignited the debate over fairness in sports.

The verb 'sainen saseta' (caused to reignite).

水着一枚で荒波に挑む海女の姿は、自然と共に生きる人間の力強さを象徴している。

The sight of an 'ama' diver braving the rough waves in just a swimsuit symbolizes the strength of humans living in harmony with nature.

The counter 'ichimai' for thin/flat objects.

消費者の嗜好が多様化する中で、水着市場もニッチな需要への対応を迫られている。

As consumer preferences diversify, the swimsuit market is being forced to respond to niche demands.

The structure '...ni taiou o semararete iru' (is being pressured to respond to...).

水着の歴史を紐解けば、それは女性の身体的解放の歴史そのものと言っても過言ではない。

If you unwrap the history of the swimsuit, it is no exaggeration to say it is the history of the physical liberation of women itself.

The phrase '...to itte mo kagon de wa nai' (it is no exaggeration to say...).

布地の摩耗や塩素による退色を防ぐため、水着のメンテナンスには細心の注意を払うべきだ。

To prevent fabric wear and fading due to chlorine, one should pay meticulous attention to the maintenance of swimsuits.

The idiom 'saishin no chuui o harau' (to pay the utmost attention).

水着のパターンメイキングには、人体の立体的な動きを計算し尽くした緻密な設計が求められる。

Pattern making for swimsuits requires a precise design that fully calculates the three-dimensional movements of the human body.

The compound verb 'keisan-shitsukushita' (fully calculated).

Common Collocations

水着に着替える

水着を買いに行く

水着姿

水着売り場

水着を干す

水着が似合う

水着を忘れる

水着を新調する

水着の跡

水着モデル

Common Phrases

水着持参

— Bringing your own swimsuit. Often seen on event flyers or pool invitations.

明日のパーティーは水着持参でお願いします。

水着着用

— Wearing a swimsuit. Used in rules to indicate that swimwear is mandatory.

このエリアは水着着用が義務付けられています。

水着審査

— Swimsuit competition/judging. Often used in beauty pageants.

ミス・コンテストで水着審査が行われた。

水着特設会場

— Special swimsuit sales area. Common in malls during the summer season.

デパートの屋上で水着特設会場がオープンした。

水着姿の女性

— A woman in a swimsuit. A descriptive phrase often used in media or literature.

ビーチには水着姿の女性がたくさんいた。

水着のサイズ

— Swimsuit size. Used when shopping or asking for measurements.

自分に合う水着のサイズを探す。

水着のトレンド

— Swimsuit trends. Used when discussing fashion.

今年の水着のトレンドはレトロなデザインだ。

水着のデザイン

— Swimsuit design. Refers to the aesthetic or cut of the garment.

その水着のデザインは個性的だ。

水着を脱ぐ

— To take off a swimsuit. A basic action phrase.

泳ぎ終わったらすぐに水着を脱ぐ。

水着を洗う

— To wash a swimsuit. Refers to post-swim maintenance.

塩分を落とすために水着をよく洗う。

Often Confused With

水着 vs 下着 (Shitagi)

Means underwear. While they look similar, you would never wear 'shitagi' in a pool.

水着 vs 上着 (Uwagi)

Means a jacket or coat. The opposite of what you need for swimming.

水着 vs 水気 (Mizuke)

Means moisture. Sounds similar but has a completely different meaning and kanji.

Idioms & Expressions

"水着姿を晒す"

— To expose oneself in a swimsuit. Often used when someone is shy or when a celebrity is photographed.

彼女はテレビで初めて水着姿を晒した。

Journalistic/Casual

"水着一丁"

— Wearing nothing but a swimsuit. Similar to 'in one's birthday suit' but specifically referring to just the swimsuit.

子供たちは水着一丁で庭を走り回った。

Informal

"水着が板に付く"

— To look natural or professional in a swimsuit. Usually used for athletes or models.

彼女もようやく水着姿が板に付いてきた。

Casual

"水着の女王"

— The queen of swimsuits. A title often given to the most popular swimsuit model of the year.

彼女は今年の「水着の女王」に選ばれた。

Media

"水着で勝負する"

— To compete using one's appearance in a swimsuit. Can refer to a model's career strategy.

彼女は水着で勝負することを決めた。

Casual

"水着を新調して夏を待つ"

— To buy a new swimsuit and wait for summer. Expresses anticipation for the season.

水着を新調して夏を待つ時間は楽しい。

Literary

"水着の季節"

— The season of swimsuits. A poetic way to refer to mid-summer.

いよいよ水着の季節がやってきた。

General

"水着NG"

— Swimsuits not allowed. Common shorthand in the entertainment industry or for location rules.

この撮影現場は水着NGです。

Industry Slang

"水着限定"

— Swimsuit only / Limited to swimsuits. Often used in video games for 'swimsuit only' events or gacha banners.

夏休みの水着限定イベントが始まった。

Gaming/Otaku

"水着泥棒"

— Swimsuit thief. A specific term for a petty criminal who steals swimwear from laundry lines.

近所で水着泥棒が出たらしい。

Colloquial

Easily Confused

水着 vs ウェットスーツ

Both are for water activities.

A wetsuit is thick and made of neoprene for warmth/protection, while a swimsuit is thin fashion/sport wear.

ダイビングのときは、水着の上にウェットスーツを着ます。

水着 vs ラッシュガード

Often sold together.

A rash guard is a shirt worn over a swimsuit to protect against UV rays or abrasions.

日焼けしたくないので、水着と一緒にラッシュガードを買った。

水着 vs スイムキャップ

Related swimming gear.

A swim cap is for the head, not the body.

プールのルールで、水着とスイムキャップが必要です。

水着 vs パジャマ

Both are specific clothing types.

Pajamas are for sleeping; swimsuits are for water.

水着で寝る人はいません。

水着 vs 体操服

Both are school uniforms for PE.

Taisou-fuku is for land sports (running, etc.), while mizugi is for the pool.

今日は体育館で体操服、明日はプールで水着を使います。

Sentence Patterns

[Color] の水着です。

赤い水着です。

水着を [Verb-masu].

水着を買います。

水着を [Verb-te] ください。

水着を持ってきてください。

水着で [Action].

水着で泳ぎます。

水着を [Verb-nakereba narimasen].

水着を着なければなりません。

水着を [Verb-ta] ほうがいい。

水着を洗ったほうがいい。

水着の [Noun] が人気だ。

水着のデザインが人気だ。

水着を [Verb-te] いるモデル。

水着を着ているモデル。

Word Family

Nouns

水着 (Swimsuit)

水泳 (Swimming)

着物 (Clothing/Kimono)

上着 (Jacket/Outerwear)

下着 (Underwear)

Verbs

着る (To wear)

着替える (To change clothes)

着付ける (To help someone dress)

着こなす (To wear well/stylishly)

海水浴 (Sea bathing)

プール (Pool)

浮き輪 (Swim ring)

ゴーグル (Goggles)

ビーチサンダル (Flip flops)

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high during summer; virtually zero in winter conversation unless traveling.

Common Mistakes

Using 'haku' for a one-piece swimsuit. → 水着を着る (mizugi o kiru).
Japanese verbs for 'wearing' change based on where the item is worn. Torso items use 'kiru'.
Wearing a swimsuit into a public bath (Sento). → 裸で入る (hadaka de hairu - enter naked).
Swimsuits are generally prohibited in traditional Japanese public baths for hygiene reasons.
Saying 'mizuki' instead of 'mizugi'. → 水着 (mizugi).
The 'gi' must be voiced. 'Mizuki' is a name or refers to a different concept.
Writing '水き' without the kanji. → 水着.
While 'mizugi' is the reading, the kanji is much more common in signs and shops.
Using 'mizugi' for a diving wetsuit. → ウェットスーツ (wetto suutsu).
A wetsuit is a specific technical garment, not a general 'mizugi'.

Tips

Verb Pairing

Always pair 'mizugi' with 'kiru' if you are a woman or wearing a full-body suit. It's the most natural choice.

Onsen Etiquette

Never bring your 'mizugi' into a traditional hot spring unless specifically told it's a 'mizugi-ok' area.

Seasonality

Swimsuits disappear from most stores by September. If you need one in winter, head to a large sports specialty store.

Loanwords

Don't be afraid to use 'bikini' or 'saafu pantsu'; they are widely understood and very common.

Naming

If your child is in a Japanese school, you must write their name on their 'mizugi'—usually on a white patch sewn to the front.

Washing

Use the word 'sentaku' (laundry) for clothes, but for 'mizugi', people often just say 'mizu de arau' (wash with water) to remove chlorine.

Modesty

Japanese fashion tends toward more modest swimsuits. One-pieces with skirts or high-waisted bikinis are very popular.

Kanji Logic

The kanji 着 is the same as in 'kimono' (着物). Thinking of it as 'water-clothing' makes it impossible to forget.

Kaipan

If you are a man, using the word 'kaipan' with friends will make you sound much more like a native speaker.

Sun Protection

In Japan, a 'rash guard' is almost considered part of the 'mizugi' set due to the intense summer sun.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Mizu' (Water) and 'Gi' (the uniform worn in martial arts like Karate). So, a 'Mizugi' is your 'Water Uniform'!

Visual Association

Imagine a glass of water (Mizu) wearing a tiny bikini (Gi). This silly image helps link the two components of the word.

Word Web

Mizu (Water) Kiru (To wear) Gi (Garment) Umi (Sea) Puuru (Pool) Natsu (Summer) Taiyou (Sun) Oyogu (To swim)

Challenge

Go to a Japanese shopping site like Rakuten or Amazon Japan and search for '水着'. Look at the different categories (men's, women's, school) and try to read the descriptions.

Word Origin

The word is a native Japanese compound formed by combining two older words: 'mizu' and 'ki'. The 'ki' changes to 'gi' due to a linguistic phenomenon called 'rendaku' (sequential voicing), which makes the word easier to pronounce as a single unit.

Original meaning: Water-wearing / Clothing for water.

Japonic

Cultural Context

Be aware that 'mizugi' photography (gravure) is a significant industry in Japan, which can sometimes lead to the word having a 'sexy' connotation in certain media contexts, though the word itself is perfectly neutral.

In English, we often use specific terms like 'trunks', 'bikini', or 'one-piece'. In Japanese, 'mizugi' is the primary word for all of these.

San-ai Swimwear Image Girl: A prestigious title for models in Japan. The 'Swimsuit Episode': A staple trope in almost every 'slice-of-life' anime. Oiso Long Beach: A famous water park often featured in TV specials.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Beach Trip

水着持った？
海で水着になる。
水着のまま車に乗る。
砂が水着に入った。

Shopping

水着はどこですか？
試着してもいいですか？
サイズが合いません。
この水着をください。

School

水着に名前を書く。
水着を忘れて見学する。
スクール水着を買う。
水着を袋に入れる。

Sports

競泳用の水着を買う。
水着の抵抗を減らす。
新しい水着でタイムを縮める。
予備の水着を持っていく。

Onsen/Spa

水着着用エリア。
水着は禁止です。
水着を貸し出していますか？
水着で入れる温泉。

Conversation Starters

"今年の夏は、どんな水着を買う予定ですか？ (What kind of swimsuit do you plan to buy this summer?)"

"水着を選ぶとき、何を一番重視しますか？ (When choosing a swimsuit, what do you emphasize most?)"

"海とプール、どちらに水着を着ていきたいですか？ (Which would you rather wear a swimsuit to, the sea or the pool?)"

"子供の頃、どんな水着を着ていましたか？ (What kind of swimsuit did you wear when you were a child?)"

"海外の水着と日本の水着、違いがあると思いますか？ (Do you think there are differences between overseas and Japanese swimsuits?)"

Journal Prompts

今日、デパートで新しい水着を見ました。デザインがとても綺麗でした。 (Today, I saw a new swimsuit at the department store. The design was very beautiful...)

子供の頃のプールの授業を思い出しました。青い水着を着て泳ぎました。 (I remembered my swimming classes from childhood. I wore a blue swimsuit and swam...)

もし自分が水着のデザイナーだったら、どんな水着を作りたいですか？ (If you were a swimsuit designer, what kind of swimsuit would you want to make?)

水着を持って旅行に行く計画を立ててください。 (Make a plan for a trip where you take a swimsuit.)

日本の温泉文化と水着の関係について、自分の考えを書いてください。 (Write your thoughts on the relationship between Japanese onsen culture and swimsuits.)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Generally, no. Most traditional onsens require you to be completely nude. Wearing a swimsuit is seen as unhygienic in that context. However, some 'theme park' style spas allow them in specific mixed-gender areas.

It is short for 'Sukuuru Mizugi' (School Swimsuit). It refers to the standard navy blue or black one-piece or trunks that students wear for school swimming lessons. It has a very specific, recognizable look in Japan.

Most Japanese men prefer 'surf pants' (board shorts) for leisure at the beach. Brief-style swimsuits (like Speedos) are mostly seen on competitive swimmers or older men at public pools.

It is generally frowned upon. Even in beach towns, most Japanese people will put on a t-shirt and shorts over their swimsuit before leaving the sandy area or entering a shop or restaurant.

These are called 'rash guards'. They are very popular in Japan to prevent sunburn, as pale skin is often preferred, and to provide a bit more modesty than a standard bikini or trunks.

You can say 'Wanpiisu no mizugi' (ワンピースの水着). It's a common loanword used for that specific style.

For one-pieces and bikinis, use 'kiru' (着る). For men's trunks, you can use 'haku' (履く), but 'kiru' is often used for the whole category of 'mizugi'.

During summer, every department store (like Mitsukoshi or Isetan) and large retailers (like Uniqlo or AEON) will have a dedicated 'mizugi-uriba'. Sport shops sell them year-round.

No, 'mizugi' is a gender-neutral term that applies to all swimwear, including men's trunks and children's suits.

No, Japanese nouns do not change for plurality. One swimsuit is 'mizugi', and ten swimsuits are also 'mizugi'. You use counters like 'ichimai' to specify the number.