Translation guide
The English word "format" covers several distinct ideas: the physical shape/size of something, the way information is arranged or structured, and the process of preparing something (especially digital media) for use. This guide organizes Japanese expressions by these core meanings.
Describing the physical dimensions, shape, or layout of something like a book, paper, or event.
Used for the size of books, paper, or printed materials. Often combined with a size descriptor.
This book is A5 format.
Refers to the form, style, or format of something, including events or ceremonies. Broader than 判.
Refers to the outward appearance, form, or format, often with a nuance of presentability or style.
Talking about file formats, data structures, or the way information is organized digitally or in documents.
The action of formatting a disk, drive, or memory card.
The standard verb for formatting digital storage media.
Describing the format of a TV program, event, or publication layout.
フォーマット is the most common for digital file formats and disk formatting. 形式 is broader and can refer to any form or style, including data formats, event styles, and physical shapes. 書式 specifically refers to document formatting (margins, fonts, etc.) and is common in office software.
Please select the file format.
会議の形式は対面です。
The format of the meeting is in-person.
レポートの体裁を整える。
To adjust the format of the report.
The most common loanword for digital file formats (e.g., PDF, JPEG) and data structures. Also used as a verb (フォーマットする) for formatting disks.
What is the format of this file?
To format a USB drive.
Used for data formats, especially in technical contexts. Slightly more formal than フォーマット.
Please save the data in CSV format.
Refers to the format or style of a document, such as margins, fonts, and layout. Common in word processing.
Please standardize the format.
You need to format the hard disk.
Means 'to initialize' and is often used interchangeably with フォーマットする, especially in technical contexts.
To format an SD card.
Used for the format or style of events, shows, and publications.
The format of this program is a talk show.
Also used for media formats, especially when referring to a standardized structure.
This program format is popular overseas as well.
書式をクリアする。
To clear the formatting.
When talking about the physical size of a book or paper, use 判 (はん) or サイズ, not フォーマット. フォーマット is primarily for digital or structural formats.