Translation guide
The English word 'hieroglyphics' most commonly refers to the ancient Egyptian writing system. In Japanese, this is expressed with specific terms. This guide covers how to talk about Egyptian hieroglyphs, as well as related concepts like pictograms or illegible writing, which are sometimes loosely called 'hieroglyphics' in English.
Egyptian hieroglyphics
illegible handwriting (like hieroglyphics)
Idiomatic; not a direct translation
Referring to the formal writing system of ancient Egypt, using pictorial characters.
The standard Japanese term for Egyptian hieroglyphs. A loanword from English/Greek, commonly used in academic and general contexts.
Egyptian hieroglyphics are very complex.
A more technical or academic term for Egyptian hieroglyphs, literally 'sacred carved characters'. Used in specialized historical or archaeological contexts.
Describing handwriting that is very difficult to read, like 'chicken scratch' or 'scribble'.
A common Japanese idiom meaning 'writing that looks like worms crawling'. Equivalent to 'chicken scratch' or 'illegible scrawl'. Not a direct translation of 'hieroglyphics', but conveys the same figurative meaning.
His notes are like hieroglyphics; I can't read them.
Means 'illegible' or 'cannot be deciphered'. A straightforward way to say writing is unreadable, without the figurative comparison.
Means 'code' or 'cipher'. Sometimes used figuratively to describe something as incomprehensible as a secret code, similar to calling it hieroglyphics.
Referring to any system of pictorial symbols used for communication, like emoji or signage.
Literally 'picture characters'. This is the general term for pictograms, including emoji. It can be used for any pictorial symbol system, but not specifically for Egyptian hieroglyphs unless context is given.
The restroom sign is shown with pictograms (like hieroglyphics).
While English speakers might say 'It's hieroglyphics!' about bad handwriting, Japanese speakers rarely use ヒエログリフ that way. Instead, use idioms like ミミズが這ったような字 or simply 判読できない. Using ヒエログリフ might be understood but sounds unnatural.
象形文字 (shōkeimoji) refers to ancient pictographic writing systems like Egyptian hieroglyphs or Chinese oracle bone script. 絵文字 (emoji) refers to modern pictograms, including emoji. Don't confuse them.
Deciphering ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics is difficult.
This stone monument is inscribed with hieroglyphics.
This prescription is illegible. It's like hieroglyphics.
彼の字は暗号みたいだ。
His handwriting looks like hieroglyphics (a secret code).
A loanword for 'pictogram'. Often used for standardized symbols in public spaces, like Olympic sports icons or airport signs.
The pictograms at the station are easy for foreigners to understand, like modern hieroglyphics.