Translation guide
The English word "chapter" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common uses: a section of a book, a period or phase in life or history, and a local branch of an organization. It also touches on figurative uses.
Referring to a numbered or titled division of a book, manga, or other written material.
The most common and general word for a chapter in a book, thesis, or formal document. Often used with numbers.
Please read Chapter 1.
This book consists of ten chapters.
Used for chapters in manga, light novels, or episodic stories. Literally means 'story' or 'episode'.
I'm looking forward to the next chapter.
This manga has 100 chapters in total.
Loanword from English, often used in contexts like DVDs, video games, or modern media. Less common for traditional books.
Please proceed to the next chapter.
Describing a distinct stage or era, often metaphorically.
Used metaphorically, just like in English. Often in phrases like 'new chapter'.
A new chapter of my life has begun.
Means 'a break' or 'a milestone', often used when a chapter closes. Not a direct translation but conveys the sense of ending a phase.
This marks the end of a chapter.
Referring to a division or branch of a club, association, or religious group.
Use 章 for formal or non-fiction chapters (books, reports). Use 話 for manga, anime, or episodic fiction. チャプター is a casual loanword often used in multimedia contexts.