Translation guide
The English word 'folding' can refer to the action of bending something over on itself, or to something that is designed to be folded for storage. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for these meanings.
Expressing the act of bending something flat over on itself.
Transitive verb meaning to fold or bend something, typically used for paper, thin objects, or breaking by bending.
Please fold the paper in half.
He folded the letter and put it in an envelope.
Transitive verb specifically meaning to fold up something into a compact shape, like a map, chair, or clothes.
I folded up the map and put it in my pocket.
Transitive verb meaning to fold (clothes, fabric, paper) or to close up something like an umbrella or fan. Very common for laundry and everyday items.
I folded the shirt and put it away in the drawer.
Help me fold up the umbrella.
Intransitive verb meaning to be bent or folded at an angle, often used for something that gets creased or bent unintentionally.
The corner of the page is folded over.
Describing an object that can be folded for storage or portability.
A common pattern meaning 'folding-type' or 'collapsible'. Attach to the noun.
Bring the folding chair.
A folding table is convenient.
A shorter noun-modifying form, often used in product names or casual speech.
I bought a folding umbrella.
Potential form of 折り畳む, used as an adjective meaning 'foldable' or 'can be folded'.
Referring to the fold line or the state of being folded.
折る (oru) is general 'to fold/bend', often for paper or breaking. 折り畳む (oritatamu) emphasizes folding something into a compact shape, like a map or chair. たたむ (tatamu) is most common for folding clothes, umbrellas, and everyday items. Use 折り畳む for things that become smaller for storage, and たたむ for laundry or closing up items.
折る (oru) implies a sharp bend or crease, and is not natural for folding clothes. Use たたむ (tatamu) instead.
to fold clothes
Please fold the laundry neatly.
I want a folding bed.
This desk is foldable, so it's easy to store.
The crease in the trousers is sharp.
Please submit the documents folded in half.