Translation guide
The English word "lumber" refers to wood that has been processed into beams and planks, primarily for construction. This guide covers how to express this concept naturally in Japanese, from the most common general term to more specific or technical vocabulary.
To refer to wood processed for construction in a general sense.
The most common and neutral word for lumber or timber. Used in everyday conversation, business, and technical contexts.
This house is made of lumber.
The price of lumber is rising.
Often interchangeable with 木材, but can emphasize the material as a commodity or in the context of a lumberyard. Slightly more commercial feel.
I bought lumber at the lumberyard.
To emphasize the processed nature of lumber, such as planks, beams, or boards used in construction.
Refers specifically to lumber that has been sawn and processed. Common in industrial and construction contexts.
This factory produces lumber.
Refers to squared lumber or timber, such as beams and posts. Often used in carpentry.
Refers to board lumber, planks. Used when the flat shape is important.
To refer to lumber in its raw, unprocessed form, such as logs before sawing.
To express the English verb 'to lumber', meaning to move in a slow, heavy, awkward way.
木材 (もくざい) is the most general term for wood as a material. 材木 (ざいもく) is often used in commercial contexts (lumberyard, buying/selling). 製材 (せいざい) specifically means processed lumber, emphasizing the manufacturing aspect. In most everyday situations, 木材 is the safest choice.
The English shout 'Timber!' when a tree falls is not translated directly. Instead, Japanese might say '木が倒れる！' (きがたおれる！, The tree is falling!) or simply shout a warning.
角材を柱に使う。
Use squared lumber for the pillars.
板材で棚を作った。
I made a shelf from lumber boards.
原木を製材所に送る。
Send the raw lumber to the sawmill.