Translation guide
A notebook can refer to a physical book for writing notes, a portable computer, or a specific type of exercise book. This guide covers the most common Japanese expressions for each meaning.
A bound book of blank or ruled pages for taking notes, journaling, or sketching.
The most common and general word for a notebook. Used for school, work, and personal use. Often implies a standard ruled notebook.
授業のノートを取る。
I take notes in my notebook during class.
このノートは方眼です。
This notebook has grid paper.
A small pocket notebook or planner, often used for scheduling, memos, or as a diary. Implies portability.
スケジュールを手帳に書く。
I write my schedule in my pocket notebook.
A traditional term for a notebook or account book. Now somewhat dated or used in specific contexts like business ledgers.
帳面に記入する。
Enter it in the notebook.
A portable personal computer, often called a notebook computer or laptop.
The standard term for a laptop/notebook computer. Shortened from 'notebook personal computer'.
新しいノートパソコンを買った。
I bought a new laptop.
Abbreviation of ノートパソコン, commonly used in casual conversation and advertising.
ノートPCが欲しい。
I want a laptop.
Direct loanword from English 'laptop'. Less common than ノートパソコン but understood, especially in tech contexts.
A thin, stapled notebook used for school exercises, often with specific rulings.
Also used for exercise books. Context clarifies the type.
漢字練習用のノートをください。
Please give me a notebook for kanji practice.
Specifically an exercise book or practice notebook, often with pre-printed grids or lines for writing practice.
ノート is a general notebook for writing, often larger and used for study or work. 手帳 is a small pocket notebook or planner, typically used for schedules and quick memos.
ノートにアイデアを書き留める。
Jot down ideas in a notebook.
手帳に予定を書く。
Write appointments in a pocket planner.
ノート alone usually means a paper notebook. To refer to a laptop, use ノートパソコン or ノートPC to avoid confusion.
授業用に新しいノートが必要です。
I need a new notebook for class.
彼女はいつも小さな手帳を持ち歩いている。
She always carries a small notebook.
ラップトップのバッテリーが切れた。
The laptop battery died.
Solve problems in the math exercise book.