Translation guide
An emblem is a symbolic object or design representing a group, idea, or quality. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 紋章 (monshō), but the best choice depends on context: family crests, national symbols, logos, or abstract representations.
A design or object used as the official symbol of a country, organization, or family, often with historical or heraldic significance.
The most direct and common translation for 'emblem' in the sense of a heraldic or official symbolic design, such as a coat of arms or family crest.
The family emblem is a cherry blossom.
Often refers to a badge, medal, or insignia worn to show membership or achievement, such as a police badge or military insignia.
Means 'symbol' and can be used for an emblem that represents an abstract idea or quality, like a national emblem.
Specifically a national emblem or coat of arms of a country.
A specific design used as a symbol of a family, especially in Japanese tradition.
The standard term for a Japanese family crest, used on clothing, tombstones, and belongings.
A graphic design used by a company or product as its identifying symbol.
The most common term for a logo or brand emblem in modern Japanese.
Something that stands for an idea, virtue, or characteristic.
紋章 is a general term for heraldic emblems, often used for Western coats of arms. 家紋 specifically refers to Japanese family crests. 象徴 is an abstract symbol, not a physical design. Use 象徴 when talking about something that represents an idea.
Western emblems often feature animals.
The eagle is the national emblem of the United States.
Police officers wear an emblem on their uniform.
鳩は平和の象徴です。
The dove is an emblem of peace.
Japan's national emblem is the chrysanthemum crest.
The kimono has the family emblem on it.
A shorter, more casual term for a family crest or emblem, often used in compound words.
What is this emblem?
この会社のロゴはとても有名です。
This company's emblem is very famous.
Often used for a simple mark or emblem, like a brand mark or symbol on a product.
That bag has the brand's emblem on it.
Can be used for a logo that resembles a traditional emblem, but sounds formal or old-fashioned for modern brands.
The university's emblem is a design combining a book and a sword.
The best word for an emblem in the sense of a symbol representing an abstract concept.
The olive branch is considered an emblem of peace.
A common loanword for 'symbol', often interchangeable with 象徴 but slightly more casual.
The dove is an emblem of peace.
My family emblem is a plum blossom.
The lion is an emblem of courage.
While 紋章 can translate 'emblem', it sounds overly formal or archaic for a company logo. Use ロゴ or マーク for brand emblems in everyday speech.
Each family has its own emblem.