Translation guide
The English word "features" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common uses for learners: physical facial characteristics, notable parts or aspects of something, and special attractions or functions. It also briefly covers less common meanings like newspaper articles or films.
Referring to the parts of a person's face, such as eyes, nose, mouth, etc., often in terms of appearance.
The most natural and common word for facial features, referring to the overall look and structure of the face.
彼女は整った顔立ちをしている。
She has regular features.
彼の顔立ちは父親に似ている。
His features resemble his father's.
Specifically refers to the features of the eyes and nose, often used when describing how well-defined or attractive they are.
彼は目鼻立ちがはっきりしている。
He has clear-cut features.
A casual, somewhat technical-sounding way to refer to individual facial parts (eyes, nose, etc.). Often used in makeup or drawing contexts.
顔のパーツのバランスが大事だ。
The balance of facial features is important.
Referring to a distinctive attribute, characteristic, or component of an object, system, or abstract thing.
The most versatile and common translation for 'feature' in the sense of a distinguishing characteristic. Works for physical objects, software, people, etc.
このスマホの一番の特徴はカメラ性能だ。
The main feature of this smartphone is its camera performance.
彼の話し方には独特の特徴がある。
His way of speaking has a unique feature.
Used when 'feature' means a function or capability, especially in software, apps, or machines. Emphasizes what something can do.
Similar to 特徴 but often implies a unique or distinguishing feature that sets something apart, sometimes with a positive nuance.
A homophone of 特徴 but specifically means a strong point or merit. Used when 'feature' implies an advantage or selling point.
Referring to a highlighted part of an event, such as a film, show, or exhibition.
The main attraction or highlight of an event. Often used for performances, festivals, or special menus.
今日の呼び物は花火大会です。
Today's feature is the fireworks display.
Literally 'eyeball', but idiomatically means the main feature or highlight, often used in marketing or events.
Used for a special feature in a magazine, TV program, or website that focuses on a specific topic.
Referring to a special article or column, often not straight news.
A feature article in a publication. Often abbreviated to just 特集.
旅行雑誌の特集記事を読んだ。
I read a feature article in a travel magazine.
Refers to a feature or human-interest story, as opposed to hard news. Literally 'reading material'.
新聞の読み物欄が好きだ。
I like the features section of the newspaper.
Referring to the main movie in a cinema program, historically accompanied by shorts.
A feature-length film. Often shortened to 長編 in context.
この映画祭では長編映画と短編映画が上映される。
At this film festival, feature films and short films are screened.
The main feature or main program, as opposed to supporting or opening acts. Used for films, but also for the main part of any show.
Use 特徴 (tokuchou) for general distinguishing characteristics, whether physical or abstract. Use 機能 (kinou) specifically for functional features, like those of a machine, software, or system. For example, a smartphone's camera is a 機能, but its sleek design is a 特徴.
このアプリの特徴はシンプルなデザインで、機能はメモと共有だけです。
The feature of this app is its simple design, and its features are just notes and sharing.
The loanword フィーチャー (fiichaa) exists but is rarely used naturally. It might appear in IT contexts (e.g., 'feature phone') but is not a general translation. Stick to the Japanese words above.
新モデルにはいくつかの革新的な機能があります。
The new model has several innovative features.
If referring to functions/capabilities.
彼女の繊細な顔立ちが若く見せていた。
Her delicate features made her look younger.
その祭りの呼び物はパレードです。
The main feature of the festival is the parade.
This app has many useful features.
この地域の特色は豊かな自然だ。
The feature of this region is its rich nature.
この製品の特長は省エネ性能です。
The feature of this product is its energy-saving performance.
このフェスの目玉は有名アーティストのライブだ。
The feature of this festival is a live performance by a famous artist.
今月の特集は「世界の絶景」です。
This month's feature is 'World's Scenic Spots'.
予告編の後に本編が始まる。
The feature starts after the trailers.