Translation guide
The English word "category" refers to a class or division of things sharing common characteristics. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is カテゴリー (category), a loanword used widely in everyday and digital contexts. More formal or written alternatives include 分類 (classification) and 部門 (division/section). The choice depends on context: カテゴリー for general grouping, 分類 for systematic classification, and 部門 for organizational departments.
What category does this belong to?
To refer to a broad group of items, topics, or concepts that share a common feature, often used in everyday conversation, websites, or apps.
The most direct and common equivalent, a loanword from English. Used in casual and digital contexts like blogs, online shops, and menus.
This blog's category is 'Travel'.
Filter products by category.
Means 'classification' and implies a more systematic or scientific grouping. Common in academic, library, or biological contexts.
Often used for categories in arts, entertainment, and media, like music genres or film types. Similar to 'genre'.
To refer to a section or department within a company, competition, or institution.
Used for departments or divisions in a company, or categories in a contest (e.g., 'sales department', 'youth category').
He works in the sales category (department).
This award has three categories.
Refers to a division or section, often in formal classifications, tax brackets, or administrative groupings.
To refer to a fundamental concept in philosophy, such as Aristotle's categories or Kantian categories.
A technical term used in philosophy and logic. Rare in everyday speech.
Aristotle's theory of categories
カテゴリー is a casual, everyday word for grouping things (like website categories). 分類 is more systematic and often used in science or libraries. 部門 refers to organizational divisions like company departments or contest categories.
In this app, you can manage expenses by category.
The classification of living things is difficult.
He belongs to the marketing category (department).
While カテゴリー is widely understood, using it in formal writing or academic papers may sound too casual. In those cases, prefer 分類 or 区分.
Please select a category.
This falls into a different category.
図書館の本は分類ごとに並べられています。
The library books are arranged by category.
What is your favorite music category?
The tax rate changes according to income category.