Translation guide
The English word 'cord' covers several distinct physical objects and concepts. This guide helps you choose the right Japanese word depending on what kind of cord you mean.
A flexible insulated cable used to connect an appliance to a power source.
The most common word for an electrical cord or cable. A loanword from English, used for power cords, extension cords, and similar.
このコードをコンセントに差してください。
Please plug this cord into the outlet.
延長コードが必要です。
I need an extension cord.
Specifically a power cord. More precise than コード alone.
パソコンの電源コードを忘れました。
I forgot my computer's power cord.
A thin, flexible string made of twisted fibers, used for tying or fastening.
General word for string, cord, or lace. Used for tying things like packages, shoes, or clothing.
このひもで箱を縛ってください。
Please tie the box with this cord.
靴のひもがほどけた。
My shoelace came undone.
Kanji form of ひも. Same meaning, often used in written contexts.
荷物を紐で縛る。
Tie the luggage with a cord.
Thread, often thinner than ひも. Used for sewing or very fine cords.
この糸は細すぎて切れそうだ。
This thread is so thin it might break.
A strong, thick cord made of multiple strands, used for heavy tasks like mooring, climbing, or towing.
Loanword for rope. Used for climbing, marine, and general heavy-duty cords.
このロープはとても丈夫です。
This rope is very strong.
Traditional Japanese word for a thick rope or cable, often used in contexts like sumo, ships, or ceremonial ropes.
A cord-like structure in the body, such as the spinal cord or vocal cords.
A unit of volume for cut firewood, equal to 128 cubic feet.
The same loanword コード is used for the firewood measurement, but this is very rare and technical. Usually explained rather than translated.
薪を1コード注文した。
I ordered a cord of firewood.
While コード is common for electrical cords, it is not used for thin strings or twine. Use ひも instead.
ひもで結ぶ
tie with a cord
Moor the boat to the shore with a rope.
声帯を痛めた。
I strained my vocal cords.
Cut the baby's umbilical cord.