Translation guide
The English word 'keyboard' can refer to a computer keyboard, a musical keyboard, or a keyboard instrument. This guide covers how to express these concepts naturally in Japanese.
The physical input device with keys used for typing on a computer or other digital device.
The standard loanword for a computer keyboard. Used in almost all contexts.
I bought a new keyboard.
Please clean the keyboard.
Literally 'keyboard' (the set of keys), but more commonly used for musical keyboards. Can be used for computer keyboards in technical contexts, but キーボード is more natural.
This computer's keyboard is easy to type on.
An electronic musical instrument with keys, often portable, that can produce various sounds.
The standard loanword for an electronic musical keyboard. Context usually makes it clear you mean the instrument.
He is playing the keyboard.
Explicitly 'electronic keyboard'. Used when you need to distinguish from an acoustic piano or other instruments.
The set of black and white keys on a piano, organ, or similar instrument.
In Japanese, キーボード can mean both a computer keyboard and a musical keyboard. The meaning is usually clear from context. If you need to be specific, you can say パソコンのキーボード (computer keyboard) or 楽器のキーボード (musical instrument keyboard).
While 鍵盤 can technically refer to a computer keyboard, it sounds overly technical or old-fashioned. Stick with キーボード for everyday use.
I spilled coffee on my keyboard.
She plays keyboard in a band.
The piano has 88 keys.
This keyboard can produce various sounds.
I'm torn between buying an electronic keyboard or a piano.
General term for 'keyboard instrument', including pianos, organs, synthesizers, etc. More formal or categorical.
Among keyboard instruments, I like the piano the most.
Please tell me the number of keys on the keyboard.
This piano's keyboard feels heavy.