Translation guide
The English word "imprint" has several distinct meanings, from physical marks to lasting influences. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each context.
A mark made by pressing or stamping, such as a footprint, fingerprint, or embossed design.
General word for a mark, trace, or imprint left behind. Works for footprints, fingerprints, scars, etc.
A strong and lasting effect on someone's mind, memory, or character.
Literally 'to leave an impression'. The most natural way to express that something made a lasting impact on someone.
その映画は強い印象を残した。
That movie left a strong imprint (impression) on me.
The name of a publisher or brand under which a book is published.
English 'imprint' in the sense of 'lasting effect' is not directly translated as a noun in Japanese. Use verb phrases like 印象を残す or 影響を与える instead of trying to find a single noun equivalent.
その経験が彼に深い印象を残した。
The experience left a deep imprint on him.
雪に足跡が残っていた。
Footprints were left in the snow.
机にコップの跡がついた。
A cup left a mark on the desk.
More formal or literary term for traces, vestiges, or evidence of something having been there.
犯人の痕跡は見つからなかった。
No trace of the culprit was found.
A mark or sign, often intentional. Can be used for stamped seals or identifying marks.
書類に印を押す。
To stamp a seal on a document.
Specifically an engraved or stamped mark, like a hallmark on metal or a maker's mark.
指輪に刻印がある。
There is an imprint (hallmark) on the ring.
To exert influence. Broader than just mental imprint; can be used for shaping someone's thinking or behavior.
彼の教えは私の人生に大きな影響を与えた。
His teachings left a deep imprint on my life.
Literally 'to engrave on one's heart'. A poetic way to say something is deeply imprinted in memory.
その言葉を心に刻んだ。
I imprinted those words on my heart.
Specifically refers to 'imprinting' in psychology (e.g., animal behavior) or metaphorically for early childhood learning.
アヒルの雛に刷り込みが起こる。
Imprinting occurs in ducklings.
General word for 'publisher'. In context, it can refer to the imprint as the publishing house name.
この本は有名な出版社から出ている。
This book is published under a famous imprint.
Loanword from English 'label', commonly used for music labels and increasingly for publishing imprints.
その小説は新しいレーベルから刊行された。
The novel was published under a new imprint.
Direct loanword, used in publishing industry jargon.
このインプリントは児童書専門だ。
This imprint specializes in children's books.