Translation guide
Lint refers to small fibers or fluff that accumulate on fabric, in pockets, or in filters. This guide covers how to express this concept naturally in Japanese.
Small fibers or fluff that collect on clothing, especially after washing or drying.
The most common and general term for lint, especially the kind that comes off fabric. Literally 'thread scraps'.
There's lint on my clothes.
A lot of lint came out after washing.
Refers to fluffy dust or lint, often the kind that accumulates in corners or on surfaces. Literally 'cotton dust'.
Fluff has accumulated in the corner of the room.
Specifically refers to pills or fuzz balls that form on fabric from friction, not loose lint. Use only when talking about pilling.
This sweater pills easily.
The lint that collects in a dryer filter or is removed from laundry.
Small bits of fluff that accumulate in pockets or the navel.
糸くず is the best general term for lint from fabric. 綿ぼこり is fluffier, dust-like lint that floats or gathers in corners. 毛玉 specifically means pills or fuzz balls on fabric, not loose lint.
Lint sticks to clothes.
Fluff is floating in the air.
A brush for removing pills.
Remove the lint from the laundry.