Translation guide
The English word 'arch' can refer to a curved structure, the shape itself, or an architectural feature. This guide covers how to express these concepts naturally in Japanese.
A curved structure spanning an opening, like a doorway or bridge.
The most common and versatile word for an arch in architecture, borrowed from English. Used for doorways, bridges, and decorative arches.
この橋は石のアーチでできている。
This bridge is made of stone arches.
教会の入り口には美しいアーチがある。
There is a beautiful arch at the entrance of the church.
A technical term for an arched gate or doorway, used in architectural contexts. Rare in everyday speech.
この寺院の拱門は鎌倉時代に建てられた。
The arched gate of this temple was built in the Kamakura period.
A shape that curves like an arch, such as a rainbow or eyebrow.
Literally 'arch shape', used for anything that forms a curve like an arch.
虹が空にアーチ形を描いていた。
A rainbow formed an arch in the sky.
Means 'bow shape', often used for curves resembling a bow, including arches. Common in descriptions of eyebrows or bridges.
彼女の眉は弓形だ。
Her eyebrows are arched.
The curved part on the bottom of the foot.
Direct translation using 'ashi no āchi'. Commonly understood in contexts like shoes or foot health.
この靴は足のアーチをサポートします。
These shoes support the arch of the foot.
The traditional Japanese word for the arch of the foot, literally 'the part that doesn't touch the ground'. Used in everyday and medical contexts.
土踏まずが痛い。
The arch of my foot hurts.
アーチ is a loanword and is widely understood for most meanings of 'arch'. It's safe to use in most contexts, from casual to formal.
アーチ型の窓
arched window