Translation guide
The English word 'desk' can refer to a piece of furniture for working or studying, or to a specific position or department in an organization. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for both meanings.
A flat-surfaced piece of furniture used for writing, reading, or using a computer, typically found in offices, schools, or homes.
The most common and general word for a desk (furniture). Used for both Western-style desks and traditional Japanese low desks.
There is a book on the desk.
I bought a new desk.
Loanword from English, often used for office desks or in business contexts. Can sound slightly more modern or Western.
The office desk is spacious.
Specifically a study desk, often used for children's or students' desks at home.
I bought a study desk for my child.
An office desk, specifically for clerical work. More formal or technical.
The office desk is always tidy.
A specific role, section, or counter in an organization, such as a reception desk, information desk, or a department like the news desk.
Reception desk or reception area. Also refers to the person at the reception.
Please write your name at the reception desk.
Counter or window where transactions or inquiries are handled, e.g., at a bank, post office, or city hall.
Used in news/media contexts to mean a department or editorial desk, e.g., 'news desk', 'sports desk'.
Information desk or information center, often in stations, airports, or tourist spots.
Front desk, typically at a hotel.
机 (つくえ) is a desk, typically used for work or study, often with drawers. テーブル is a table, usually for dining or meetings. Do not use 机 for a dining table.
In English, 'desk' can mean a department or role (e.g., 'the news desk'). In Japanese, use specific terms like デスク (for media) or 部署 (ぶしょ, department) instead of 机.
あちらの窓口でお尋ねください。
Please ask at that desk over there.
He works at the sports desk.
I got a map at the station information desk.
ホテルのフロントで鍵を受け取ってください。
Please pick up your key at the hotel front desk.