Translation guide
The English word 'folder' can refer to a physical paper folder, a digital directory, or a folded pamphlet. This guide covers natural Japanese for each meaning.
A folded cardboard or plastic cover for holding loose papers.
The most common loanword for a paper folder. Widely understood.
書類をフォルダーに入れてください。
Please put the documents in the folder.
Often used for a binder or file folder. Can also mean a digital file, so context matters.
このファイルにレポートを綴じてください。
Please bind the report in this file.
Literally 'paper holder'. A traditional term, less common in modern offices.
祖父は紙挟みに手紙を整理していた。
My grandfather organized letters in a paper folder.
A virtual container for organizing files on a computer or device.
The standard term for a digital folder in most operating systems and software.
新しいフォルダーを作成してください。
Please create a new folder.
A shorter variant, often seen in technical contexts or older systems.
そのファイルはルートフォルダにあります。
That file is in the root folder.
Technical term for directory, used in programming or command-line interfaces.
A printed sheet folded into a small booklet or map.
Literally 'folding pamphlet'. Clear and descriptive.
観光案内所で折り畳みパンフレットをもらいました。
I got a folding pamphlet at the tourist information center.
Loanword for leaflet, often implies a single folded sheet.
商品のリーフレットを配布しています。
We are distributing product leaflets.
Traditional accordion-folded book or pamphlet. Not common for modern leaflets.
ファイル (file) usually means a binder or a digital file, not a folder. Use フォルダー for both paper and digital folders to avoid confusion.
ファイルをフォルダーに保存する。
Save the file in the folder.
カレントディレクトリを確認してください。
Check the current directory.
この折り本は地図になっています。
This folded book is a map.