Translation guide
The English word 'aperture' has two main uses: a technical meaning in photography/optics, and a general meaning of an opening or hole. This guide focuses on the most common and useful Japanese equivalents for an English-speaking learner.
The adjustable opening in a camera lens that controls the amount of light reaching the film or sensor.
The standard term for 'aperture' in photography. It refers to the mechanism that controls the size of the opening.
A general opening, gap, or hole, often in a surface or barrier.
In photography, '絞り' (shibori) refers to the adjustable diaphragm mechanism, while '口径' (koukei) refers to the physical diameter of the lens opening, often used for telescopes. Use '絞り' for camera settings.
While 'aperture' can be translated as '開口部' in technical contexts, in everyday English it is often used for small holes or gaps. In such cases, '穴' or '隙間' are more natural choices.
絞りを開けると、より多くの光が入ります。
When you open the aperture, more light enters.
このレンズの最大絞りはF2.8です。
The maximum aperture of this lens is f/2.8.
Literally 'caliber' or 'diameter', often used in technical contexts to refer to the physical size of the aperture, especially in telescopes or binoculars.
この望遠鏡の口径は100mmです。
The aperture of this telescope is 100mm.
A direct loanword from English, used occasionally in photography contexts, but '絞り' is much more common and natural.
アパーチャーを調整してください。
Please adjust the aperture.
A formal or technical term for an opening or aperture, used in architecture, engineering, and anatomy.
壁の開口部から光が差し込んだ。
Light streamed in through an aperture in the wall.
The most common word for 'hole'. It can be used for any kind of hole, but it is less formal than '開口部'.
フェンスに小さな穴が開いている。
There is a small aperture in the fence.
Refers to a gap, crack, or crevice, often implying a narrow opening.
ドアの隙間から冷たい風が入ってくる。
Cold air comes in through the aperture around the door.
Literally 'mouth', but can refer to an opening of a container, cave, etc. Use with care as it is not a direct translation for all 'apertures'.
洞窟の口は狭かった。
The aperture of the cave was narrow.