Translation guide
The literal or figurative wings of an angel. In Japanese, this is usually expressed with the compound 天使の翼 (tenshi no tsubasa). Context determines whether it refers to physical wings, a costume, a metaphorical idea, or a specific item like a plant or pastry.
Referring to the actual wings of an angel in art, stories, or imagination.
The standard, neutral phrase for 'angel wings'. 翼 (つばさ) is the common word for wings of a bird or angel.
絵には天使の翼が描かれている。
Angel wings are depicted in the painting.
Uses 羽 (はね) which can mean wing or feather. Slightly more poetic or focused on the feathers themselves. Less common than 翼 for whole wings.
天使の羽がふわりと落ちてきた。
An angel's feather floated down softly.
Wings worn as part of a costume, often for children or cosplay.
Often used for costume wings, especially when made of feathers. 羽根 (はね) emphasizes the feathery nature.
ハロウィンで天使の羽根をつけた。
I wore angel wings for Halloween.
Explicitly says 'angel wings costume'. Useful when clarity is needed.
彼女は天使の翼のコスチュームを着ている。
She is wearing an angel wings costume.
Metaphorical use, such as innocence, protection, or a spiritual concept.
Works for most figurative uses, just like in English.
彼はまるで天使の翼に守られているようだ。
He seems as if protected by angel wings.
Referring to things like a pastry, plant, or other named objects.
Loanword from English, used for specific items like the pastry 'angel wings' (a type of fried dough). Also used for the plant Caladium.
エンジェルウィングというお菓子を作った。
I made a pastry called angel wings.
Descriptive phrase for the plant, but the loanword is more common.
天使の翼の植物を育てている。
I'm growing an angel wings plant.