Translation guide
The English word "desktop" can refer to the top surface of a desk, or in computing, the main screen area of a computer's graphical interface. This guide covers both meanings.
The top surface of a desk, where you place items.
The most natural way to refer to the top surface of a desk. Literally "on top of the desk".
本が机の上にあります。
There is a book on the desktop.
Please tidy up the desktop.
The loanword from English, used in contexts where the physical surface is emphasized, such as in furniture descriptions or when contrasting with other surfaces. Less common than 机の上 in everyday speech.
このデスクはデスクトップが広いです。
This desk has a spacious desktop.
The main screen area of a computer's graphical user interface, where icons and windows appear.
The standard term for the computer desktop. Used in all contexts, from casual to technical.
デスクトップにファイルを保存しました。
I saved the file to the desktop.
デスクトップの壁紙を変えたい。
I want to change the desktop wallpaper.
Explicitly refers to the desktop screen, often used when distinguishing from other screens or in instructions.
デスクトップ画面が表示されません。
The desktop screen is not displayed.
A personal computer designed to be used on a desk, as opposed to a portable laptop.
The most common term for a desktop computer. Often shortened to just デスクトップ in context.
デスクトップパソコンを買い替えました。
I replaced my desktop computer.
Short for デスクトップパソコン. Commonly used when the context is clear, e.g., comparing with a laptop.
Literally "stationary type PC". A more technical term, sometimes used in product categories.
据え置き型パソコンは拡張性が高い。
Desktop computers have high expandability.
While デスクトップ can technically refer to the top of a desk, it sounds unnatural in everyday conversation. Use 机の上 instead.
机の上にコーヒーを置いた。
I put coffee on the desktop.
When talking about computers, デスクトップ alone can mean either the screen area or the computer itself. The surrounding conversation usually clarifies which one.
デスクトップにアイコンが多すぎる。
I have too many icons on my desktop.
彼女は机の上を全部片付けた。
She cleared everything off her desktop.
Desktops have better performance than laptops.