Translation guide
A tool for punching holes in paper, typically for binders. In Japanese, the most common term is パンチ, but other expressions exist depending on context.
パンチ
hole punch (tool)
The device used to punch holes in paper for filing in binders.
The most common and natural term for a hole punch in everyday office and school settings. Often used as 穴あけパンチ to be explicit.
パンチを貸してもらえますか？
Can I borrow the hole punch?
Literally 'hole-opening punch'. More descriptive and unambiguous than just パンチ.
この穴あけパンチは２穴用です。
This hole punch is for two holes.
A more formal or technical term, sometimes used in product descriptions or manuals. Less common in casual speech.
穴あけ器の刃が鈍くなった。
The blade of the hole punch has become dull.
The act of making holes in paper using a hole punch.
The standard way to say 'to punch holes with a hole punch'. パンチ can be replaced with 穴あけパンチ.
書類にパンチで穴をあけてください。
Please punch holes in the documents with the hole punch.
Simply 'to make a hole'. Context usually makes it clear that a hole punch is used, but it can also refer to other methods.
この紙に穴をあけてもいい？
Is it okay to punch a hole in this paper?
In Japan, two-hole punches are standard for many documents, but you can specify the number by saying ２穴パンチ (にけつぱんち) for two holes, or ３０穴パンチ (さんじゅうけつぱんち) for a 30-hole punch, etc.