Translation guide
The English phrase "one letter" can refer to a single alphabetic character, a single written correspondence, or a single character in a writing system. This guide covers how to express these meanings naturally in Japanese.
Please say your name one letter at a time.
Also means 'one character', often used in formal or written contexts. Can refer to a single kanji or letter.
This word is missing one letter.
Explicitly 'one letter of the alphabet'. Useful when distinguishing from other characters.
The password requires one letter of the alphabet.
Referring to one piece of mail, such as a letter you write and send to someone.
Referring to one character in Japanese or other scripts, not necessarily alphabetic.
文字 (もじ) means a character or letter of a writing system, while 手紙 (てがみ) means a letter you send in the mail. Using the wrong one can cause confusion.
When counting letters as mail, use the counter 通 (つう). For characters, use 文字 (もじ) or 字 (じ) with numbers, or the generic counter つ for small numbers (e.g., 一つ).
How much does it cost to send one letter?
Please write carefully, one character at a time.