Translation guide
A garland is a decorative wreath or chain of flowers, leaves, or other materials, often worn or hung for celebration. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 花輪 (はなわ), but other words like 花冠 (かかん) or レイ (lei) are used depending on context.
A circular arrangement of flowers and leaves, often used for celebrations, funerals, or as a headpiece.
The most common and general term for a garland or wreath made of flowers. Used for both celebratory and funeral wreaths.
She received a garland on her birthday.
A large garland was displayed at the funeral.
Specifically a flower crown or garland worn on the head, often associated with weddings, festivals, or fairy-tale imagery.
Loanword from Hawaiian 'lei', used for the flower garlands given as a welcome or farewell in Hawaii and sometimes in Japanese contexts.
A less common term for a decorative ring or garland, sometimes used for Christmas wreaths or general ornaments.
I hung a garland on the door for Christmas.
A garland worn on the head, often for festivals, weddings, or as a decorative accessory.
A string or chain of materials like paper, leaves, or fabric used for decoration.
General term for decoration; can refer to garlands made of various materials. Often used in compound words like 紙飾り (paper decoration).
We made paper garlands for the party.
Loanword from English 'garland', used especially for decorative fabric or paper chains in party settings.
I decorated the wall with a garland.
花輪 (はなわ) is a general wreath or garland, often large and used for ceremonies or funerals. 花冠 (かかん) specifically refers to a garland worn on the head, like a flower crown. Use 花輪 for most situations unless it's a headpiece.
The loanword ガーランド is mainly used for decorative paper or fabric chains, not for flower garlands. Using it for a flower wreath may sound unnatural.
She wore a garland of fresh flowers in her hair.
They hung garlands around the room for the festival.
The bride wore a flower garland on her head.
I was given a lei in Hawaii.