General "ball"
* ボール (bōru) - This is the most common word for "ball" in Japanese, used for things like a baseball, soccer ball, basketball, etc.
Specific types of balls
* 玉 (tama) - This word means "ball" or "jewel" and is used for things like a marble, a pearl, or a ball used in a game like mahjong.
* 球 (kyū) - This word means "ball" or "sphere" and is often used in scientific contexts or when talking about planets.
* 丸 (maru) - This word means "round" or "circle" and can be used for a ball, especially if it's a small or round object.
Other meanings
* 舞踏会 (budōkai) - This means "ball" as in a formal dance party.
The best word to use depends on the specific situation. If you're unsure, "ボール (bōru)" is generally the safest choice.