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.
この本は10章から構成されています。
This book consists of ten chapters.
Used for chapters in manga, light novels, or episodic stories. Literally means 'story' or 'episode'.
次の話が楽しみだ。
I'm looking forward to the next chapter.
この漫画は全100話です。
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.
次のチャプターに進んでください。
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'.
人生の新たな章が始まった。
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.
Referring to a division or branch of a club, association, or religious group.
Standard term for a local chapter or branch of an organization.
彼は地元の支部で活動している。
He is active in the local chapter.
Used for smaller sub-branches, especially in unions or political groups.
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.
これで一区切りついた。
This marks the end of a chapter.
組合の分会に出席した。
I attended the union chapter meeting.