Translation guide
The English word 'cushion' can refer to a soft pillow-like object, something that absorbs shock, or a metaphorical buffer. This guide covers how to express these ideas naturally in Japanese.
A soft bag filled with material used for comfort when sitting or leaning.
The most common and direct loanword for 'cushion'. Used for sofa cushions, floor cushions, etc.
Please put a cushion on the sofa.
Traditional Japanese flat cushion used for sitting on the floor. Often used in tatami rooms.
Please sit on the cushion.
Something that softens impact or reduces shock.
Something that reduces the impact of a difficult situation, such as financial cushion or emotional buffer.
Putting cushioning material in shoes makes walking easier.
時間に余裕を持って出かけましょう。
Let's leave with a time cushion.