ポリ袋(ぶくろ)

Short for ポリエチレン袋(ぶくろ) (polyethylene bag). Refers to the thin, translucent bags commonly used in supermarkets and convenience stores for packing groceries or produce.

Common collocations

• ポリ袋(ぶくろ)に入(い)れる: to put in a plastic bag
• ポリ袋(ぶくろ)を使(つか)う: to use a plastic bag
• ポリ袋(ぶくろ)が有料(ゆうりょう): plastic bags are paid/charged

Similar words

• レジ袋(ぶくろ): checkout bag — specifically the bags given at cash registers
• ビニール袋(ぶくろ): vinyl bag — often used interchangeably in daily speech, though technically a different material
• エコバッグ: reusable shopping bag — the alternative promoted since Japan's 2020 bag charge

Cultural note

Since July 2020, Japan has required retailers to charge for plastic bags, leading to widespread use of エコバッグ (reusable bags). ポリ袋(ぶくろ) remains common for food storage and trash disposal at home.