Translation guide
A small printed notice or advertisement distributed by hand. In Japanese, the most common word is チラシ, but other terms exist depending on context.
handbill (general)
handbill (political/activist)
Often used for leaflets with a message or protest.
A small printed sheet of paper used for advertising or announcements, often handed out on the street or inserted in newspapers.
The most common and versatile word for a handbill or flyer. Used for both commercial ads and community notices.
They are handing out flyers in front of the station.
There was a flyer inserted in the newspaper.
Often used for political or activist leaflets, or for small advertisements posted on walls. Can have a slightly more informal or rough nuance than チラシ.
Loanword from English, used mainly for event flyers, especially in music or club scenes. Sounds trendy.
A handbill inserted into newspapers or delivered to mailboxes, often containing supermarket specials or local ads.
A small booklet or folded sheet providing information, often used for tourism, health campaigns, or instructions.
A folded brochure or pamphlet, usually with multiple pages. More substantial than a single-sheet handbill.
I picked up a brochure at the tourist information center.
A leaflet, often a single sheet folded once or twice. Similar to but sometimes implies a simpler format.
チラシ is the safest, most common word for any handbill or flyer. ビラ often implies a political or activist leaflet, or something posted on walls. フライヤー is a trendy loanword for event flyers, especially in nightlife.
hand out flyers
put up handbills/posters
The direct loanword ハンドビル is not commonly used in Japanese. Stick with チラシ or ビラ.
Election handbills are posted all over town.
I got a flyer for a club event.
I want to place an insert ad in the newspaper.
We distributed leaflets about the health checkup.