How to say "lesbian" in Japanese

• レズCommon
  nounThe common everyday word, but derogatory — closer to 'dyke' or 'lesbo' than to neutral 'lesbian'. Avoid it in polite conversation; use it only when you understand the offence it can carry.
• ビアン
  nounA slangy short form of レズビアン, meaning simply 'lesbian'. Less common and casual in flavour, heard among friends or in informal talk rather than in careful writing.
• レズビアン
  no-adjectiveThe full loanword and the safest neutral choice for 'lesbian' in most contexts, from conversation to writing. Less common than the clipped レズ, but free of its insulting edge.
• 女性同性愛者じょせいどうせいあいしゃ
  nounThe descriptive term, literally 'a female homosexual'. It fits explanatory writing or serious discussion; in everyday conversation it can sound stiff or clinical.
• ズーレー
  nounA slang term for a lesbian, but a very marginal one: this is seldom the word you want. Recognise it if you meet it, and reach for レズビアン instead.

For neutral reference use 「レズビアン」; 「レズ」 is common but derogatory; 「ビアン」 and 「ズーレー」 are slang; 女性同性愛者 is the descriptive term for explanatory contexts.

Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only

• レズlesbian
• ビアンlesbian
• レズビアンlesbian
• 女性同性愛者じょせいどうせいあいしゃlesbian
• ズーレーlesbian