Translation guide
The English word 'inlay' refers to a decorative technique where pieces of material are set into a surface to form a design. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through specific nouns and verbs depending on the material and context, such as woodworking, metalwork, or dentistry.
To describe the technique or result of setting pieces of material into a surface for decoration.
The standard term for decorative inlay in wood, metal, or other materials. Often used in traditional crafts.
This box has beautiful inlay work.
An alternative kanji for 象嵌, less common but still used. Same meaning.
I bought a table with inlay work.
Loanword from English, used in modern contexts like guitar inlays or dental inlays.
The guitar neck has an inlay.
To describe the action of setting materials into a surface.
The verb form of 象嵌, meaning to inlay. Used for traditional crafts.
The craftsman inlaid gold into the box.
A more general verb meaning to fit or set into, often used for inlaying or embedding.
Means to embed or bury, can be used for inlaying when the material is set flush with the surface.
To refer to a dental restoration made outside the mouth and cemented into place.
To describe the woodworking technique of inserting contrasting materials into a wood surface.
象嵌 (zōgan) is the traditional Japanese term for inlay in crafts like metalwork and woodwork. インレイ (inrei) is a loanword used in modern contexts such as musical instruments and dentistry. Use 象嵌 for traditional arts and インレイ for contemporary or technical fields.
If you are unsure which term to use, はめ込む (hamekomu) is a versatile verb that can describe setting something into a surface, similar to 'inlay' in a broad sense. It works for both decorative and functional contexts.
木に貝殻をはめ込んで模様を作る。
They inlay shells into wood to create patterns.
床にタイルを埋め込む。
They inlay tiles into the floor.
銀の詰め物が取れた。
My silver filling came out.
Yosegi-zaiku small boxes are popular as souvenirs.