Translation guide
The English word 'bead' can refer to small decorative objects, drops of liquid, or parts of a rosary. This guide covers how to express these concepts naturally in Japanese.
Referring to a small, often round piece of glass, plastic, wood, etc., used for making necklaces, bracelets, or decorations.
The most common and general word for craft beads, especially small, colorful ones. A loanword from English.
このネックレスは小さなビーズでできている。
This necklace is made of small beads.
A native Japanese word meaning 'ball' or 'bead'. Often used for larger or traditional beads, such as wooden beads or beads on an abacus.
数珠の玉は木でできている。
The beads of the rosary are made of wood.
Specifically refers to marbles (the toy), but can sometimes be used for large glass beads. 'ビー' comes from 'ビードロ' (vidro, glass).
子供の頃、ビー玉で遊んだ。
I played with marbles when I was a child.
Describing a small, round drop of liquid, such as sweat, dew, or water.
The standard word for a drop of liquid. Can be used for sweat, dew, tears, etc.
額に汗の滴が浮かんでいた。
Beads of sweat stood out on his forehead.
葉っぱに露の滴が光っている。
Dewdrops are glistening on the leaves.
Can also be used for drops of liquid, often emphasizing the round shape. Commonly used in phrases like '汗の玉' (beads of sweat).
Referring to the individual beads on a string of prayer beads (rosary, Buddhist juzu).
Specifically refers to the beads of a Buddhist rosary (juzu). '数珠' means rosary, '玉' means bead.
祖母は毎朝数珠の玉を繰りながら祈っている。
My grandmother prays every morning while fingering the beads of her rosary.
Used for Catholic rosary beads. 'ロザリオ' is the loanword for rosary.
彼女はロザリオの玉を一つずつ指で送った。
She moved her fingers over each bead of the rosary.
Beads of sweat were running down his face.