Translation guide
The English word 'file' covers several distinct meanings. This guide organizes them by practical use: a tool for smoothing, a container for documents, a computer data unit, a line or row, and the act of submitting documents.
A tool with a rough surface used to smooth, shape, or trim materials like metal, wood, or nails.
General word for a file (the tool). Can be written in kanji as 鑢, but usually in kana.
I file down the metal with a file.
Specifically a nail file.
I shape my nails with a nail file.
A folder, binder, or box used to store and organize papers or documents.
Loanword from English, widely used for physical document folders, binders, and also digital files.
I put the documents in a file.
Often used for cardboard or plastic folders, sometimes interchangeable with ファイル.
Refers to a bound file or the act of binding documents together. More formal or technical.
A collection of data stored under a single name on a computer or digital device.
Standard term for a computer file.
Please save that file to the desktop.
A line of people or things arranged one behind the other, or a rank in an organization.
To officially submit or register documents, applications, or records.
General verb for submitting or handing in documents, reports, etc.
I file an application.
To file a report or notification with an authority, often for official records.
To apply for something officially, often involving filing forms.
I file for a visa.
To file a declaration, especially for taxes or customs.
I file my income tax return.
Both are loanwords. ファイル is more common for ring binders or clear file folders. フォルダー often refers to cardboard folders or file jackets. In computing, ファイル is a file and フォルダー is a folder/directory.
I put documents in a file (binder).
I put documents in a folder (file jacket).
The tool 'file' (for smoothing) is やすり, not ファイル. Using ファイル for the tool will cause confusion.
I shape my nails with a nail file.
このフォルダーに領収書を入れてください。
Please put the receipts in this folder.
Please check the bound documents.
兵士が縦列で行進した。
The soldiers marched in file.
I file a change of address with the city office.