Translation guide
A flat stone used for paving paths, patios, or floors. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 敷石 (shikiishi), but other terms exist depending on context.
A flat stone used for paving walkways, patios, or garden paths.
The most common and general term for a flat stone used in paving. Can refer to both natural and manufactured stones.
I laid flagstones in the garden.
Specifically refers to stepping stones set individually in a garden or path, often with gaps between them. Common in traditional Japanese gardens.
Stepping stones are often used in Japanese gardens.
A general term for a flat stone slab, not necessarily for paving. Can be used for flagstone but is less specific.
I made a path by laying stone slabs.
Flagstone as a material, e.g., 'a patio made of flagstone'.
敷石 (shikiishi) refers to flagstones laid closely together to form a continuous surface, while 飛び石 (tobiishi) are individual stepping stones placed with gaps, often in gardens.
Means 'natural stone'. Often used when emphasizing the natural, irregular quality of flagstone.
I used natural stone flagstones.