Translation guide
Describes a shape that is longer than it is wide, often with rounded ends. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 長方形 (rectangle), but for rounded oblong shapes, 長円形 or 小判型 are used.
Describing something that is rectangular but not strictly square, often used for everyday objects.
The standard word for 'rectangle' in Japanese. It is used for any rectangular shape, including oblong ones. While it implies right angles, it is the most common way to describe an oblong shape in everyday contexts.
このテーブルは長方形です。
This table is oblong.
A more casual term for 'rectangle', literally 'long square'. It is used in spoken Japanese and can imply an oblong shape.
その箱は長四角だね。
That box is oblong, isn't it?
Describing a shape that is elongated with rounded ends, like a pill or a traditional Japanese gold coin.
Literally 'long circle shape', this is the most direct translation for a rounded oblong. It is used in design and technical contexts.
その鏡は長円形です。
The mirror is oblong.
Refers to the shape of a koban, an old Japanese gold coin that is oblong with rounded ends. It is a vivid, culturally specific term often used for objects like mirrors or plates.
Means 'elliptical' or 'oval'. It can be used for oblong shapes that are symmetrically rounded, but it is more precise for true ellipses. Use with caution if the shape is not a perfect ellipse.
This implies a mathematically elliptical shape, not just any rounded oblong.
Referring to something that is an oblong shape, often in art or design.
Literally 'rectangular thing'. This is a safe, general way to refer to an oblong object when the shape is rectangular.
テーブルの上に長方形のものが置いてある。
There is an oblong object on the table.
For a rounded oblong object. More specific than 長方形のもの.
彼は長円形のものを描いた。
He drew an oblong shape.
長方形 (rectangle) is used for shapes with straight sides and right angles, even if they are elongated. 長円形 (oblong) specifically implies rounded ends. In everyday conversation, 長方形 is more common and often covers oblong shapes unless the roundness is emphasized.
小判型 (koban shape) is a culturally rich term that evokes the image of old Japanese gold coins. It is perfect for describing objects like mirrors, plates, or netsuke that have a historical or traditional aesthetic.
部屋は長方形だった。
The room was oblong in shape.
彼女は長円形のブローチをつけていた。
She wore an oblong brooch.
小判型のお皿を買いました。
I bought an oblong plate.
そのトラックは楕円形です。
The track is oblong.