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digital message sent electronically, typically over the internet
仕事のメールを確認する
to check work emails
友達にメールを送った
I sent an email to my friend
Commonly used in both personal and professional contexts. The verb form メールする (to email) is also widely used.
physical letter or package sent via postal service
手紙ではなくメールで送ってください
Please send it by email, not by mail
This meaning is less common in modern usage, as メール typically refers to electronic mail. The term 郵便 (ゆうびん) is more commonly used for postal mail.
In modern Japanese, メール almost always refers to electronic mail. For physical mail, use 郵便 (ゆうびん) or 手紙 (てがみ). If you're unsure, context will usually clarify which type of mail is being discussed.
Use メール in casual and most business contexts. Use 電子メール in formal documents, academic writing, or when emphasizing the 'electronic' nature of the message to distinguish from physical mail.
From English 'mail' (postal system), adopted into Japanese via English loanword usage. The term 'mail' itself comes from Middle English 'male' (bag or wallet), which was derived from Old French 'male' (wallet). In Japanese, it specifically refers to electronic mail (email) in modern contexts.
メール is the most common term for email in Japanese, though 電子メール (denshi mēru, 'electronic mail') is also used, especially in formal contexts. The verb メールする (mēru suru, 'to email') is standard. In business settings, メール is preferred over 電子メール. The term 郵便 (ゆうびん) is reserved for physical mail.