Translation guide
The English word "book" covers several distinct concepts in Japanese. The most common meaning is a physical book (本), but it can also refer to a reservation (予約), an accounting ledger (帳簿), or a bound volume (巻). This guide breaks down these meanings and provides natural Japanese expressions for each.
A set of printed pages bound together, such as a novel, textbook, or notebook.
I bought a new book. · She is reading a book. · The book is on the table.
The most common and general word for a book. Used for novels, textbooks, picture books, etc.
This book is very interesting.
I like reading books.
A more formal term for books, often used in publishing or library contexts.
A literary or somewhat old-fashioned term for books, emphasizing their content or cultural value.
An arrangement to have something held for future use, such as a hotel room, ticket, or table.
I need to book a flight. · Did you book a table? · The booking was confirmed.
The standard word for reservation or booking. Can be used as a noun or a suru-verb (予約する).
A record of financial transactions, often used in business or accounting.
The accountant balanced the books. · We need to audit the books.
Refers to an account book or ledger. Often used in business contexts.
One part of a larger work, especially in a series or encyclopedia.
The encyclopedia has 20 volumes. · I own the first volume.
Used as a counter or noun for volumes of a series. Often follows a number.
While 本 means "book" in the physical sense, it cannot be used for "booking" a hotel or ticket. Use 予約 instead.
本 is the everyday word for book. 書籍 is formal and often used in publishing or library contexts. 書物 is literary and somewhat old-fashioned, emphasizing the content or cultural value.
I read a book.
This library holds many valuable books.
He collects old books.
I'd like to confirm my hotel booking.
I booked a restaurant.
A common casual phrase meaning "to get tickets" (implies booking/purchasing).
I booked concert tickets.
Keeping the books is a hassle.
Specifically an accounting book or financial ledger.
Please check the account books.
このシリーズは全10巻です。
This series is 10 volumes in total.
I'm reading volume 3.
A general counter for books, but can imply a volume when context is clear. Less specific than 巻.
This encyclopedia consists of 30 volumes.
I booked a hotel.