Translation guide
The English word "band" covers several distinct concepts in Japanese. This guide organizes them by meaning: a musical group, a strip or ring-shaped object, a range or frequency interval, and a group of people. Each meaning has its own natural Japanese expressions.
A group of musicians who play together, especially in popular music.
The most common and general word for a musical band, borrowed from English. Used for rock, pop, jazz, etc.
彼はロックバンドでギターを弾いている。
He plays guitar in a rock band.
新しいバンドを結成した。
We formed a new band.
A more formal term for a musical group, often used for orchestras, brass bands, or traditional ensembles. Not typically used for casual rock bands.
吹奏楽団に所属しています。
I belong to a brass band.
Refers to a member of a band, often used in the context of amateur or professional musicians. Slightly dated or niche.
彼はバンドマンとして生計を立てている。
He makes a living as a band member.
A flat, thin strip or loop of material used for binding, decoration, or as a part of something.
A general word for a band, belt, or sash. Often used for kimono sashes, book bands, or decorative strips.
着物に帯を締める。
Tie an obi (sash) on a kimono.
本に帯が付いている。
The book has a belly band.
Used for watch bands, headbands, or elastic bands. Often in compound words.
Specifically a rubber band. Not a general term for 'band'.
輪ゴムで束ねる。
Bundle with a rubber band.
A range of frequencies, wavelengths, or values, often in technical contexts.
Refers to a frequency band or bandwidth in radio, audio, or data transmission.
この無線機は広帯域に対応している。
This radio supports a wide frequency band.
General word for 'range' or 'scope', can be used for non-technical bands like tax brackets or age groups.
A group of people united by a common purpose or characteristic, often in a somewhat formal or organized sense.
A group or party of people, often used for travelers, protesters, or organized groups.
観光客の一団がバスから降りてきた。
A band of tourists got off the bus.
Often used for a band of criminals or conspirators. Has a negative connotation.
A general loanword for 'group', can be used for any informal band of people.
While バンド is the most common translation for 'band', it almost exclusively refers to musical groups. Using it for a group of people or a strip of material can cause confusion.
観光客のバンド
a band of tourists (unnatural)
I replaced the watch band.
ヘアバンドで髪を留める。
Hold hair back with a headband.
Literally 'frequency band', used in technical specifications.
5GHz周波数帯を使用する。
Use the 5GHz frequency band.
The tax rate for this income band is 20%.
A band of thieves was caught.
若者のグループが公園に集まっていた。
A band of young people gathered in the park.