Translation guide
The biwa is a traditional Japanese short-necked lute, often used in narrative storytelling and classical music. This entry covers how to refer to the instrument, its music, and related cultural contexts.
biwa (the instrument)
Referring to the biwa as a musical instrument
The standard Japanese word for the biwa lute. Used in all contexts.
彼女は琵琶を演奏します。
She plays the biwa.
Talking about biwa music, playing, or performances
Referring to a person who plays the biwa
Referring to the tradition of narrating stories with biwa accompaniment
Distinguishing between different kinds of biwa
The word 'biwa' can also refer to the loquat fruit (枇杷, びわ). Context usually makes it clear, but if ambiguity arises, specify 楽器の琵琶 (がっきのびわ, musical instrument biwa) or 果物の枇杷 (くだもののびわ, fruit biwa).
琵琶法師が平家物語を語った。
The biwa hōshi recited the Tale of the Heike.
Heikyoku is performed with the biwa.
薩摩琵琶は力強い音が特徴です。
The Satsuma biwa is characterized by its powerful sound.
The Chikuzen biwa is popular among female players.