Translation guide
The English word 'fabric' refers to cloth or material, typically used for making clothes, upholstery, or other textile products. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 布 (nuno), but depending on context, other words like 生地 (kiji) or 織物 (orimono) may be more appropriate.
The general concept of fabric as a material made from fibers, used for sewing, crafts, or covering.
The most common and general word for 'fabric' or 'cloth'. Used in everyday contexts.
This fabric is soft.
布を切ってください。
Please cut the fabric.
Often used for fabric in the context of sewing, tailoring, or when referring to the material of clothing. Can also mean 'dough' in cooking contexts.
このシャツの生地は綿です。
The fabric of this shirt is cotton.
生地を選ぶのが楽しい。
Choosing fabric is fun.
Specifically refers to woven fabric. More technical or traditional.
この織物は手織りです。
This fabric is hand-woven.
When talking about the fabric used for curtains, upholstery, or other household items.
Similar to 布 but often used when referring to fabric for specific purposes like curtains or upholstery.
カーテンの布地を変えたい。
I want to change the curtain fabric.
Also used for upholstery or clothing material.
ソファの生地が破れた。
The sofa fabric is torn.
Referring to a specific kind of fabric, like denim, silk, or plaid.
In Japanese, you often specify the type of fabric by using the material name followed by の布 or の生地.
デニムの生地でジャケットを作った。
I made a jacket out of denim fabric.
絹の布は高価です。
Silk fabric is expensive.
The structure or framework of something, like 'the fabric of society'.
Means 'structure' or 'framework'. Used in figurative contexts.
社会の構造が変化している。
The fabric of society is changing.
Means 'foundation' or 'basis'. Can be used similarly.
布 (nuno) is the most general term for cloth/fabric. 生地 (kiji) is often used for fabric as a material for making clothes or in sewing contexts, and can also mean 'dough'. 織物 (orimono) specifically means woven fabric and is more technical. For everyday use, 布 is safest.
布を買いに行く。
I'm going to buy some fabric.
この生地でワンピースを作ります。
I'll make a dress with this fabric.
伝統的な織物を展示している。
They are exhibiting traditional woven fabrics.
The loanword ファブリック (faburikku) exists but is not commonly used for general fabric. It may appear in brand names or specific contexts like 'fabric softener' (柔軟剤, not ファブリック). Stick to native Japanese words.
Protect the fabric of democracy.