Translation guide
The English word 'cube' can refer to a 3D shape, a cube-shaped object, or the mathematical operation of cubing a number. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each meaning.
Referring to the geometric solid with six equal square faces.
Standard term for a cube as a geometric solid. Used in math, design, and everyday contexts.
サイコロは立方体です。
A die is a cube.
Loanword from English, common in casual contexts, product names, and when referring to cube-shaped objects like ice cubes or puzzle cubes.
ルービックキューブを解くのが趣味です。
Solving Rubik's Cubes is my hobby.
Referring to a small object that is shaped like a cube.
Means 'cut into cubes' and is used for food items like vegetables, meat, or fruit. Often combined with the food name.
野菜を角切りにしてください。
Please cut the vegetables into cubes.
Literally 'dice-shaped', used for food or other objects cut into small cubes, similar to a dice.
ステーキをサイコロ状に切る。
Cut the steak into cubes.
Used in compound words for specific cube-shaped items, like 氷キューブ (ice cube) or 角砂糖 (sugar cube, though 角砂糖 is more common).
氷キューブを入れてください。
Please put in some ice cubes.
Specifically means 'sugar cube'. Use this when referring to the small cubes of sugar.
Referring to multiplying a number by itself twice (raising to the third power).
Standard mathematical expression for 'cubed' or 'to the third power'. Attach to a number.
2の3乗は8です。
2 cubed is 8.
Used in mathematical contexts, often in compound terms like 立方根 (cube root). Can also be used as '～を立方する' but less common in everyday speech.
立方根を求める。
Find the cube root.
立方体 is strictly the geometric shape. For ice cubes, dice, or food, use キューブ, 角切り, or サイコロ状 instead. Saying 氷の立方体 sounds overly technical and unnatural.
Both mean 'cut into cubes', but 角切り is more common for general cooking, while サイコロ状 emphasizes the small, dice-like size and is often used for steak or appetizers.
角砂糖を二つください。
Two sugar cubes, please.