Translation guide
The material made from animal hide, used for clothing, accessories, and goods. In Japanese, the word 革 (かわ) covers both 'leather' and 'skin/hide', so context is important. This guide helps you express 'leather' naturally in Japanese.
Referring to the material itself, such as 'leather jacket' or 'made of leather'.
The most common word for leather. Can also mean 'skin' or 'hide', so context clarifies it's processed leather.
Specifying the kind of leather, such as genuine, synthetic, or from a specific animal.
Genuine leather, real leather. Used to distinguish from synthetic.
Talking about products made of leather, like bags, shoes, or accessories.
革 (かわ) usually means processed leather, while 皮 (かわ) means raw skin or hide. However, in many compounds, 革 is used for leather items. Be careful with the kanji: 革靴 (かわぐつ) leather shoes, 皮肉 (ひにく) sarcasm (unrelated).
To describe leather as soft, use 柔らかい革 (やわらかいかわ). For high-quality, say 上質な革 (じょうしつなかわ). Avoid literal translations like 'good leather' (良い革 is okay but vague).
このジャケットは本革製です。
This jacket is made of genuine leather.
私は革靴の方が好きです。
I prefer leather shoes.
このバッグは革でできています。
This bag is made of leather.
革のジャケットを買いました。
I bought a leather jacket.
Loanword from English, often used in fashion and product names. Sounds modern and stylish.
レザーの手袋が欲しいです。
I want leather gloves.
Formal term for leather, often used in industry or official contexts. Not common in everyday speech.
皮革製品の輸出が増えています。
Exports of leather goods are increasing.
This sofa is genuine leather.
Synthetic leather, faux leather. Often abbreviated as 合皮 (ごうひ) in casual contexts.
合皮のバッグは安いです。
Faux leather bags are cheap.
Cowhide leather. Commonly specified for quality.
牛革の財布は長持ちします。
Cowhide wallets last a long time.
Leather goods, leather products. A general term.
革製品のお手入れ方法を教えてください。
Please tell me how to care for leather goods.
Small leather accessories like wallets, key cases, etc.
革小物のプレゼントを探しています。
I'm looking for a small leather accessory as a gift.