Translation guide
The English word 'decoration' covers a wide range of meanings, from physical ornaments and embellishments to medals and the act of decorating. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression based on the specific meaning.
Something added to make a place or object more attractive, such as on a cake, in a room, or on clothing.
General word for decoration or ornament. Can refer to physical objects or the act of decorating.
Let's put up Christmas decorations.
The decorations on this cake are very beautiful.
More formal or technical term for decoration, often used for interior design, architecture, or artistic ornamentation.
The decoration of this building is splendid.
Loanword from English, often used for cake decoration or party decorations. Sounds modern and casual.
Help me with the cake decoration.
A medal or award given as an honor, often military or civil.
Specifically a medal or order of merit, often used for military or state honors.
He received a decoration for his service in the war.
A medal or award given for achievements in various fields like culture, sports, or social service.
The process or action of making something look more attractive by adding things to it.
飾り is the everyday word for decorations like ornaments, while 装飾 is more formal and often used for artistic or architectural decoration. Use 飾り for casual contexts and 装飾 for formal or technical descriptions.
デコレーション is mainly used for cake or party decorations. For medals and honors, use 勲章 or 褒章.
receive a decoration (medal)
彼女は文化功労者として褒章を受けた。
She received a decoration as a person of cultural merit.