Translation guide
A doorplate in Japanese contexts is typically a nameplate or sign on a door or gate, often indicating the resident's name, room number, or business name. The most common equivalent is 表札 (nameplate for a house), but other terms apply depending on the setting.
表札
doorplate (residential nameplate)
A plate on the door or gate of a house showing the family name
The standard term for a nameplate on a house or apartment door, typically showing the family name.
表札を新しくしました。
I got a new doorplate.
この家の表札には「田中」と書いてあります。
The doorplate on this house says 'Tanaka'.
A sign on a door indicating a room number, office name, or occupant in a building
A sign showing a room number, often used in hotels or office buildings.
部屋番号札が外れていました。
The room number plate had come off.
A loanword from English, used for various door signs, especially in commercial or modern settings.
オフィスのドアプレートを交換しました。
We replaced the office doorplate.
A more formal or technical term for a sign indicating a name or designation, less common in daily speech.
表記札の文字がかすれて読めません。
The lettering on the doorplate is faded and unreadable.
A sign on a door or entrance indicating a company name or professional title
Generally means 'signboard', but can refer to a doorplate for a business, especially if it's a larger sign.
事務所の看板を出しました。
We put up the office doorplate.
Also used for small business nameplates, though primarily residential.
In Japan, a 'doorplate' is most commonly a 表札 (nameplate) on a house. For hotels or offices, specify the type of sign (e.g., room number, company name) to choose the right word.
医院の表札を新調しました。
We had a new doorplate made for the clinic.