Translation guide
The English word 'island' refers to a piece of land surrounded by water. In Japanese, the most common and general word is 島 (しま). However, there are nuances depending on size, context, and whether it's part of a proper name.
Referring to any island, large or small, in everyday conversation.
The standard word for 'island'. Used for both standalone islands and as a suffix in island names.
Nobody lives on that island.
Japan is an island nation.
Emphasizing that the island is very small, often uninhabited or rocky.
When 'island' is part of a proper noun, like 'Easter Island' or 'Long Island'.
Specifically a deserted or uninhabited island, often in adventure stories.
A raised area in the middle of a road for pedestrians or to separate traffic.
A freestanding counter in a kitchen, used for food preparation or dining.
When 島 is used as a suffix in island names, the reading can be とう or じま. There is no simple rule, but とう is more common for foreign names and larger islands, while じま often appears in native Japanese names. When in doubt, check a dictionary.
Many islands are scattered in this region.
The story is set on a remote island in the middle of the ocean.
Refers to a median strip or central reservation on a highway, not necessarily for pedestrians.
Trees are planted on the median strip of the highway.
Refers to the kitchen layout with an island, rather than the island itself.
This apartment features an island kitchen.