Translation guide
The English word 'compass' can refer to a navigational instrument, a drawing tool, or a metaphorical sense of scope or range. This guide covers the most common Japanese equivalents for each meaning.
A device that shows direction, especially magnetic north.
The most common and general word for a magnetic compass. Used in everyday conversation and understood by all.
I take a compass when I go to the mountains.
This compass is pointing north.
Literally 'direction magnet'. A more technical or formal term for a magnetic compass. Often used in science or educational contexts.
Use a compass to check the direction.
Refers to a ship's compass or a traditional Chinese-style compass. Often used in historical or nautical contexts.
The ship's compass broke.
A V-shaped instrument for drawing circles or measuring distances on a map.
The limits or boundaries of an area, subject, or activity.
Means 'range' or 'scope'. Used in phrases like 'within the compass of' to indicate limits.
This problem is beyond the compass of my knowledge.
Means 'area', 'domain', or 'field'. Often used for abstract boundaries like expertise or influence.
Literally 'range of fire', but used metaphorically to mean 'reach' or 'compass' in terms of influence or capability.
The English word 'compass' can be part of 'compassion', but that is a completely different word in Japanese (同情, どうじょう). Do not use コンパス for that meaning.
I bought a drafting compass.
じいちゃんはぶんまわしで丸を書いた。
Grandpa drew a circle with a compass.
Expand the compass of activities.
それは私の専門領域ではない。
That is not within the compass of my expertise.
彼の影響力の射程は広い。
The compass of his influence is wide.