Translation guide
Refers to the first part of a multi-volume work, such as a book, manga, or series. Japanese uses specific counters and words depending on the medium.
first volume (numbered series)
first issue (magazine)
The learner wants to refer to the first book in a series of volumes.
Used for the first volume of a two-volume set, or the first part of a multi-volume work when it's divided into 上 (first) and 下 (second). Common for novels and manga.
I finished reading the first volume of this novel.
Literally 'volume 1'. Used for series with numbered volumes. Very common for manga, light novels, and encyclopedias.
The first volume of this manga goes on sale next month.
Can mean 'one volume' or 'first volume' depending on context. Often used in titles or when counting volumes.
It's the first volume of a three-volume set.
Literally 'first volume', but less common. May appear in formal or literary contexts.
The first volume of this series is out of print.
The learner wants to refer to the first issue or volume of a magazine, journal, or academic publication.
上巻 is used when a work is divided into 上 (first) and 下 (second), or 上中下 (three parts). 第1巻 is used for series with numbered volumes (1, 2, 3...). If a series has more than three volumes, 第1巻 is more natural than 上巻.
This novel is in two volumes. Please start with the first volume.
This manga is 10 volumes in total. I bought the first volume first.
「最初の巻」(saisho no kan) is a literal translation of 'first volume' but sounds unnatural. Use the appropriate counter word or prefix as shown above.
I'm looking for volume 1, issue 1 of this academic journal.