Translation guide
An insignia is a badge, emblem, or symbol that represents rank, membership, or authority. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 記章 (きしょう), but other words like 徽章 (きしょう) and 紋章 (もんしょう) are used depending on the context.
To refer to a physical badge, pin, or emblem worn on clothing to indicate rank, membership, or an award.
The most general term for a badge or medal awarded for service, achievement, or membership. Often used for official insignia like police badges or commemorative medals.
He was wearing a police insignia.
That insignia is to honor achievements.
A more formal or traditional term for a badge or emblem, often used for school badges, company pins, or heraldic symbols. Can be interchangeable with 記章 but has a slightly more decorative or symbolic nuance.
Students wear the school insignia on their uniforms.
A loanword from English, commonly used for casual or modern badges, such as name tags, event badges, or collectible pins. Less formal than 記章.
The staff wore badges at the event.
To refer to a design or symbol used as an identifying mark, such as a family crest, military emblem, or corporate logo.
Refers to a heraldic crest, coat of arms, or emblematic design. Commonly used for family crests (家紋), national emblems, or organizational symbols.
His family's insignia is a hawk design.
A loanword for 'emblem,' often used for modern logos, car emblems, or team symbols. More contemporary than 紋章.
A general term for 'symbol,' but can be used for insignia in a broad sense. Less specific than 紋章.
To specifically refer to badges or patches indicating military rank.
記章 (きしょう) is the most common for badges and medals. 徽章 (きしょう) is more formal and often used for school or company emblems. 紋章 (もんしょう) is specifically for heraldic designs like family crests. In casual contexts, バッジ or エンブレム may be used.
An insignia is given for achievements.
The insignia was sewn onto the uniform.
The insignia represents the family's history.
The flag bore the royal insignia.
車のエンブレムが光っていた。
The car's insignia was shining.
鳩は平和のシンボルだ。
The dove is a symbol of peace.
The collar insignia on the uniform was gold.