Translation guide
A fastener is a device that joins or secures things together. In Japanese, the word depends on what is being fastened and how.
To refer to a fastener in a broad sense, such as a clip, clasp, or catch on a bag, clothing, or container.
General term for a fastening device or fitting. Used for clasps, catches, and various hardware.
The fastener on this bag broke.
Loanword from 'fastener', but in Japanese it almost exclusively means 'zipper'. Use with caution.
In Japanese, ファスナー means 'zipper', not a general fastener. Do not use for buttons, snaps, or clips.
To refer specifically to a zipper on clothing, bags, etc.
The most common word for 'zipper'.
To refer to a button used to fasten clothing.
Standard word for 'button'.
To refer to a snap fastener, often used on clothing or bags.
To refer to Velcro or hook-and-loop tape.
To refer to a metal or plastic clasp, often with a hinged mechanism.
General term for a metal clasp or catch.
To refer to a brass fastener used to hold papers together.
Specifically a split pin or paper fastener.
To refer to a staple used in a stapler.
Literally 'stapler needle'. ホッチキス is the common word for stapler.
The English loanword ファスナー specifically means 'zipper'. Using it for buttons, snaps, or other fasteners will cause confusion. Use 留め具 for a general term.
ファスナーを閉めてください。
Please zip up the zipper.
The zipper on my jacket got stuck.
Informal word for 'zipper', often used in casual conversation. Originally a brand name.
Your zipper is open.
Less common loanword for 'zipper', sometimes used in product descriptions.
This bag comes with a zipper.
シャツのボタンが取れた。
A button came off my shirt.
Short for 'snap button'. Commonly used.
The snap fastener comes undone easily.
Full term for 'snap button', used in sewing and crafts.
Sew on a snap fastener.
Common term for hook-and-loop fastener, derived from a brand name (like Velcro).
Fasten with Velcro.
Generic term for hook-and-loop fastener, often used in technical contexts.
Hook-and-loop fasteners can be used repeatedly.
The clasp is stiff and won't open.
Loanword for 'buckle', used for belts, bags, and shoes.
The belt buckle broke.
Fasten the documents with a split pin.
The stapler ran out of staples.
Loanword 'staple', but less common than ホッチキスの針.
Refill the staples.