Translation guide
The English word 'map' can refer to a physical or digital representation of an area, or a conceptual mapping between things. In Japanese, the most common word is 地図 (chizu), but other terms exist for specific types of maps or figurative uses.
Referring to a drawing or representation of an area, such as a road map, city map, or digital map.
The most common and general word for 'map'. Used for paper maps, digital maps, and map apps.
この地図を見てください。
Please look at this map.
スマホの地図アプリを使っています。
I'm using a map app on my smartphone.
Loanword from English, often used in product names, apps, or casual contexts. Less common than 地図 in everyday speech.
グーグルマップで調べてみて。
Look it up on Google Maps.
Referring to specialized maps like road maps, topographical maps, or weather maps.
Road map, specifically for driving or navigation.
道路地図を買いました。
I bought a road map.
Topographical map, showing terrain features.
この地形図は山の等高線が詳しい。
This topographical map has detailed contour lines for the mountain.
Weather map.
Route map, especially for trains or buses.
Using 'map' to mean a representation of relationships, data, or a plan, not a geographical map.
Often used in compound terms for conceptual maps, like site map, mind map, or heat map.
サイトマップを作成しました。
I created a site map.
マインドマップでアイデアを整理する。
Organize ideas with a mind map.
General word for diagram or chart, can be used for conceptual maps when combined with other words.
概念図を描いて説明してください。
Please draw a conceptual map and explain.
The act of mapping, often used in technical or business contexts.
The action of creating a map or charting an area.
Literally 'to make a map'. The most straightforward way to express the action of mapping.
この地域の地図を作っています。
I'm mapping this area.
To survey (land), often for creating maps. More technical.
土地を測量して地図を作成する。
Survey the land and create a map.
Loanword verb, used in IT or data contexts.
このデータをマッピングしてください。
Please map this data.
While マップ is understood, 地図 is the natural choice in most everyday situations. Using マップ for a paper map can sound odd; it's more common in digital contexts or brand names.
Common verbs with 地図 include 見る (to look at), 調べる (to look up/check), 描く (to draw), and 作る (to make).
Looking at the weather map, it looks like rain tomorrow.
The station's route map is complicated.
Data mapping is necessary.