Translation guide
The weapon or tool consisting of a bow and arrows, used historically for hunting and warfare, and in modern times for sport and ceremony.
The most common, neutral way to refer to the weapon or equipment as a set.
The standard compound word for 'bow and arrow'. Used in everyday contexts, history, and archery.
彼は弓矢で的を射た。
He shot the target with a bow and arrow.
弓矢の練習をする。
I practice with a bow and arrow.
Literally 'bow and arrow', using the separate words. Slightly more explicit, but less common as a set phrase.
弓と矢を持って狩りに出かけた。
He went hunting with a bow and arrow.
Referring to the practice or discipline of Japanese archery.
The modern martial art of Japanese archery, emphasizing form and spiritual development.
彼女は弓道を習っている。
She is learning Japanese archery.
Traditional Japanese archery technique, often used in historical contexts before the modern 'kyudo' era.
When 'bow and arrow' is used metaphorically or in set phrases.
A deity of archery, often referring to Hachiman or other war gods. Used in historical or mythological contexts.
弓矢の神に勝利を祈った。
They prayed to the god of the bow and arrow for victory.
弓矢 is the standard compound and sounds natural in most contexts. 弓と矢 is grammatically correct but feels more like a list of two items rather than a single concept. Use 弓矢 unless you want to emphasize the separate components.
武士は弓術の訓練を欠かさなかった。
Samurai never neglected their archery training.