Translation guide
A heraldic design on a shield, escutcheon, or surcoat, representing a family, organization, or individual. In Japanese, this is typically expressed with specific terms for heraldic emblems, family crests, or Western-style coats of arms.
To refer to a traditional Japanese family crest or emblem, often used on clothing, buildings, or belongings.
The standard term for a Japanese family crest. Used for traditional designs passed down through generations.
This kimono has a family crest on it.
A broader term for a heraldic emblem or crest, can be used for both Japanese and Western designs.
A shorter, more casual term for a crest or emblem, often used in compound words.
To refer to a European-style heraldic design, typically on a shield, with supporters, motto, etc.
The most common term for a Western coat of arms. Can be used for national, city, or institutional arms.
The royal coat of arms of the United Kingdom features a lion.
Specifically refers to the shield part of a coat of arms.
The shield of the coat of arms has three stars.
The study of heraldry. Not a direct translation of 'coat of arms', but related.
To refer to a national coat of arms or official symbol used by a country or government.
家紋 (kamon) specifically refers to traditional Japanese family crests, often simple, stylized designs. 紋章 (monshō) is a broader term that includes Western coats of arms, national emblems, and any heraldic design. When talking about European heraldry, 紋章 is more appropriate.
If you're unsure, 紋章 is a safe choice for most contexts involving coats of arms. For specifically Japanese family crests, use 家紋.
彼の家の紋章は鷹です。
His family's crest is a hawk.
This box has the family crest carved on it.
He majored in heraldry at university.
その国の紋章は鷲をモチーフにしている。
The country's coat of arms features an eagle motif.