Translation guide
A letter written by hand, as opposed to typed or printed. In Japanese, the most common and natural way to refer to this is simply 手紙 (tegami), which inherently implies a handwritten personal letter. There are also more specific terms for formal letters, notes, or emphasizing the handwritten aspect.
The most common, everyday way to refer to a letter written by hand, typically personal correspondence.
The standard word for 'letter' in Japanese. It almost always implies a handwritten personal letter, as typed letters are less common in personal contexts. Use this in most situations.
I wrote a handwritten letter to my grandmother.
I received a long handwritten letter from her.
Explicitly emphasizes that the letter is handwritten, as opposed to typed. Use this when you need to clarify the medium, e.g., in a digital age context.
These days, I'm happy when I receive a handwritten letter.
A formal letter, such as a business correspondence or official document, that is handwritten. Often used in traditional or ceremonial contexts.
A formal term for a letter, often used in business or official contexts. It can be handwritten or typed, but in traditional settings it implies a handwritten document. More formal than 手紙.
To write a formal letter of thanks.
A letter written in one's own hand, often by a person of high status (e.g., a president or CEO). Implies personal involvement and sincerity.
A brief, informal handwritten message, often left for someone or attached to something.
A short note or memo, typically handwritten. Very common for quick messages, reminders, or informal communication.
I left a handwritten note on the desk.
A note left behind for someone, often when you leave a place. Implies a handwritten message left intentionally.
A brief note or a few lines of writing. Often used in phrases like 一筆箋 (いっぴつせん), a small pad of paper for short handwritten notes.
A handwritten letter valued for its personal touch, historical significance, or as a memento.
Refers to something written in one's own hand, emphasizing authenticity. Often used for autographs, manuscripts, or historical letters.
This is a handwritten letter by the author.
Similar to 直筆, but often used in art contexts to distinguish an original handwritten work from a printed copy. Can apply to letters.
In Japanese culture, personal letters are traditionally handwritten. The word 手紙 itself carries the nuance of a handwritten letter, so you often don't need to specify 'handwritten' unless contrasting with typed or digital communication.
手紙 (tegami) refers to a physical, usually handwritten letter sent by post. メール (mēru) refers to email or digital messages. When English speakers say 'I wrote you a letter,' it often implies a handwritten or typed physical letter, which is 手紙 in Japanese. If it's an email, use メール.
The president's handwritten letter was handed to the ambassador.
書き置きをして家を出た。
I left a handwritten note and went out.
一筆箋にメッセージを書く。
Write a message on a small note paper.
肉筆の手紙は貴重だ。
Handwritten letters are valuable.