Translation guide
The English word 'button' can refer to a fastener on clothing, a pushable control on devices, or a clickable element in user interfaces. This guide covers how to express each meaning naturally in Japanese.
A small disc sewn onto fabric, used to fasten garments by passing through a buttonhole.
The most common word for a clothing button, borrowed from English. Used in everyday conversation.
A small area on a device that you press to operate it, such as on a remote, elevator, or machine.
The standard word for any push-button control. Same as the clothing button word.
A clickable element in a graphical user interface, such as 'OK' or 'Submit'.
The standard term for UI buttons. Often combined with the action name.
The word ボタン covers all three main meanings. Japanese speakers rely on context to distinguish between a clothing button, a physical push-button, and an on-screen button. If you need to be specific, you can add words like 服の (clothing) or 画面の (on-screen).
A button came off my shirt.
This coat has large buttons.
Please press the elevator button.
Where is the power button?
Literally 'push-button'. Used in technical contexts or to emphasize the pushing action, e.g., on machinery or control panels.
This machine is operated by push-buttons.
Please click the 'Submit' button.
This button is disabled.