Translation guide
The English word "arrow" can refer to a projectile shot from a bow, a directional symbol, or be used metaphorically. This guide covers natural Japanese equivalents for each meaning.
The physical object shot from a bow, used in archery or historically in warfare.
The standard word for an arrow as a projectile. Used in all contexts from traditional archery to modern sports.
彼は矢を的に向かって放った。
He shot an arrow at the target.
矢筒から矢を一本抜いた。
He pulled an arrow from his quiver.
Loanword from English, used in some modern or fantasy contexts, but less common than 矢.
ゲームの中でアローを装備した。
I equipped an arrow in the game.
A graphic symbol (→) used to indicate direction, often in signs, user interfaces, or diagrams.
The most common word for an arrow symbol. Used in everyday contexts like signs, maps, and computer interfaces.
出口はあの矢印の方向です。
The exit is in the direction of that arrow.
矢印をクリックしてください。
Please click the arrow.
Can also mean an arrow symbol, especially in compound words or technical contexts, but 矢印 is clearer for the symbol.
地図上の矢は北を指している。
The arrow on the map points north.
More technical term for 'arrow symbol', used in semiotics or design.
この矢印記号は「進む」を意味する。
This arrow symbol means 'go forward'.
Used in abstract or figurative expressions, such as 'arrow of time' or 'Cupid's arrow'.
Used in metaphorical phrases, often in set expressions. For 'Cupid's arrow', キューピッドの矢 is common.
時間の矢は一方向に進む。
The arrow of time moves in one direction.
彼はキューピッドの矢に射抜かれた。
He was struck by Cupid's arrow.
While 矢 can mean both the projectile and the symbol, using 矢印 for the symbol avoids ambiguity. In contexts like computer interfaces, 矢印 is standard.