Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of a ballot is expressed through several terms that distinguish between the physical paper, the act of voting, and the system of voting. The most common and versatile word is 投票, which covers voting in general. For the physical ballot paper, 投票用紙 is standard. In formal or legal contexts, 票 is used to refer to votes or ballots as countable units.
To refer to the act or process of voting, or the system of casting votes.
The most common and general term for voting or a vote. Can be used as a noun or a suru-verb (投票する). Covers the concept of casting a ballot in elections or decision-making.
明日、投票に行きます。
I will go to vote tomorrow.
投票の結果が発表された。
The results of the vote were announced.
Refers to a vote or ballot as a countable unit, often used in formal contexts like counting votes or reporting election results. Not used for the physical paper itself.
彼は100票差で当選した。
He was elected by a margin of 100 votes.
To refer to the piece of paper or card used to cast a vote.
Literally 'voting paper'. The standard term for the physical ballot paper used in elections.
投票用紙に候補者の名前を書いてください。
Please write the candidate's name on the ballot paper.
In some contexts, 票 can refer to the physical ballot, but this usage is less common and more formal. Usually, it means a vote as a unit.
票を箱に入れる。
Put the ballot in the box.
To refer to the system or principle of voting in secret.
Literally 'anonymous voting'. The standard term for a secret ballot, where the voter's identity is not recorded on the ballot.
選挙は無記名投票で行われます。
The election is conducted by secret ballot.
To refer to voting by mail or in advance when unable to go to a polling station.
Literally 'absentee voting'. The standard term for voting by mail or at a designated location before election day when you cannot go to your registered polling place.
海外に住んでいるので、不在者投票をします。
Since I live overseas, I will vote by absentee ballot.
投票 (とうひょう) is the general term for voting or a vote as an action or system. 票 (ひょう) is a counter for votes and is used in formal contexts like election results. Do not use 票 to mean the physical paper unless the context is very clear; use 投票用紙 instead.
English 'ballot' can refer to the paper, the act, or the system. In Japanese, these are usually distinct. Using 投票 for the paper or 票 for the act can cause confusion. Choose the term based on what you specifically mean.