Translation guide
The English word 'armchair' refers to a comfortable chair with side supports for arms. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is アームチェア, a loanword from English. However, depending on context, other words like 肘掛け椅子 or ソファ may be used. This guide helps learners choose the right term.
Referring to a single-seat upholstered chair with armrests, typically found in living rooms or studies.
The most direct and common translation. A loanword from English, widely understood in modern Japanese. Suitable for most contexts.
Both mean 'armchair'. アームチェア is a loanword and feels modern and casual. 肘掛け椅子 is a native Japanese compound and can sound slightly more formal or descriptive. In everyday conversation, アームチェア is more common.
I bought a new armchair.
彼はアームチェアに座って本を読んでいた。
He was sitting in an armchair reading a book.
Literally 'armrest chair'. A more descriptive Japanese term. Slightly more formal or traditional than アームチェア. Can be used in written descriptions or when emphasizing the feature of armrests.
In the reception room, there was a leather armchair.
Usually means 'sofa' or 'couch', but in some contexts, a single-seat upholstered chair with armrests might be called ソファ (or 一人掛けソファ). Use only when the chair is part of a sofa set or very plush.
This armchair (single-seat sofa) is very comfortable.
肘掛け椅子の肘掛けが壊れた。
The armrest of the armchair broke.
The general word for 'chair' is 椅子 (いす). An armchair specifically has armrests and is usually upholstered. Using 椅子 alone might not convey the comfort or style of an armchair.
Please sit on the chair. (could be any chair)