Translation guide
The English word "note" covers several distinct meanings. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each.
A brief informal written record, reminder, or message.
The most common and natural word for a short note or memo. Used for reminders, messages, and quick written records.
I left a note for him.
I took a note of the shopping list.
A written note left behind, often when departing. Slightly more formal or literary than メモ.
Specifically a sticky note or small slip of paper attached to something.
A short written record of facts, thoughts, or observations, often for later reference.
Again, メモ is the go-to word for informal notes. It covers both the act of writing and the resulting record.
A single sound of a particular pitch in music.
The standard word for a musical note (the written symbol or the sound).
Paper money.
The formal term for paper currency. Used in official contexts.
A formal written message from one government to another.
To observe or pay attention to something.
The most common way to say "take note of" or "pay attention to."
A particular quality or feeling expressed in someone's voice or writing.
Refers to the tone of voice, manner of speaking. Can convey a note of sarcasm, urgency, etc.
書き置きを机の上に置いた。
I left a note on the desk.
I stuck a note on the book.
講義のメモを取った。
I took notes during the lecture.
Refers to a notebook or the notes taken in it, especially for study or organized records. More structured than メモ.
I reviewed my class notes.
A formal record or log. Used for official or detailed documentation, not casual notes.
I take notes (minutes) of the meeting.
What note is this?
It's hard to sing high notes.
General word for sound, but can be used for a musical note in context, especially when referring to pitch.
The piano note is off-key.
一万円紙幣をくずしてください。
Please break a 10,000 yen note.
The common, everyday word for a bill or banknote. Polite and widely used.
Can I pay with a note?
I don't have a single note in my wallet.
A diplomatic note or memorandum. Used in international relations.
The government sent a note of protest.
An official notification or circular, often used for diplomatic notes.
A note came from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Please take note of his warning.
To notice or become aware of something. Often used for realizing something.
I noted a change in her expression.
To bear in mind, to give careful consideration. More formal than 注意する.
Please take note of this point.
There was a note of concern in his voice.
Tone, pitch, or mood. Can be used for a note of sadness, etc.
Her letter had a note of sadness.
to take notes (in a notebook)
If you say ノートを残した, it sounds like you left a notebook. For a short written message, always use メモ or 書き置き.