Translation guide
The English word 'lace' can refer to a delicate fabric, a cord for fastening shoes or clothing, or the action of adding a small amount of something (like alcohol) to food or drink. This guide covers the most common Japanese equivalents for each meaning.
Delicate openwork fabric used for clothing, curtains, etc.
The most common and general term for lace fabric. Used in fashion, home decor, and crafts.
A cord or string used to fasten shoes or clothing.
The standard word for shoelace.
To add a small amount of a substance, especially alcohol, to food or drink.
A general phrase meaning 'to add a small amount of ~'. Use with the ingredient.
While レース (rēsu) is the standard word for lace fabric, it is not used for shoelaces. Use 靴ひも (kutsuhimo) instead.
This dress is made of lace.
I want lace curtains.
Specifically refers to lace knitting or crochet, the craft of making lace.
My grandmother is good at lace knitting.
My shoelace came undone.
I need to buy new shoelaces.
A general word for string, cord, or lace. Can be used for clothing laces, but '靴ひも' is more specific for shoes.
The lace on this hoodie broke.
I laced the coffee with a small amount of brandy.
A suffix meaning 'containing ~' or 'with ~ added'. Often used in menus or product descriptions.
A cake laced with rum
Means 'to mix'. Can be used when the lacing involves mixing an ingredient into something.
I laced the dough with spices.