Translation guide
The English word "English" can refer to the language, the people, or things related to England. This guide helps learners express these concepts naturally in Japanese.
English (language)
Referring to the English language, either as a subject of study or as a medium of communication.
Referring to people from England, as a nationality or ethnic group.
Describing something as being from or associated with England, such as culture, food, or style.
The standard way to say 'English' as an adjective. Again, イギリス often means British/UK. Use イングランドの for strict 'English'.
Referring to English class in an educational context.
Same word as the language, but context makes it clear it's a subject.
Japanese commonly uses イギリス to refer to the United Kingdom as a whole, not just England. If you need to specify England (as opposed to Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland), use イングランド. However, in most everyday conversation, イギリス is understood as 'English' or 'British' depending on context.
Please speak in English.
I attend an English conversation class.
The standard term for a British person. Note: Japanese often uses イギリス (England/Britain) to refer to the UK as a whole. To specify 'English' rather than Scottish, Welsh, etc., you may need to clarify.
He is English/British.
Literally 'person from England'. Less common; used when distinguishing from other UK nations.
He is English, from London.
I like English literature.
This is a traditional English dish.
Strictly 'of England'. Use when precision is needed.
The English flag is a red cross on a white background.
Next class is English.
Explicitly 'English class'.
I like English class the most.