Translation guide
Describes something having four sides, such as a square, rectangle, or quadrilateral. In Japanese, the most common way to express this is using the counter 辺 (hen) or 面 (men) depending on whether you're talking about edges or faces.
four sides (edges)
four sides (directions)
Describing a shape or object that has four edges or sides, like a square or rectangle.
Literally 'four sides/edges'. Used for geometric shapes or objects with four edges. Common in math and everyday descriptions.
A square has four equal sides.
Please tape down the four sides of this box.
Means 'four directions' or 'all sides'. Often used for surrounding areas or when something is enclosed on all four sides.
The house is surrounded by mountains on all four sides.
Literally 'four faces/sides'. Used for three-dimensional objects or when emphasizing surfaces. More technical or formal.
This building has glass on all four sides.
Expressing that something happens or is located on every side.
Idiomatic phrase meaning 'in all directions' or 'from all sides'. Very common in spoken and written Japanese.
We were attacked from all four sides by the enemy.
Means 'from all four sides'. Used when something comes from every direction.
The wind blows in from all four sides.
四辺 (shihen) focuses on edges or perimeters, like the sides of a square. 四方 (shihō) emphasizes directions or the surrounding area. 四面 (shimen) is used for faces or surfaces, often in 3D contexts. Choose based on whether you mean edges, directions, or faces.