Translation guide
The English phrase "one piece" can refer to a single item, a one-piece garment (like a dress or swimsuit), or a complete set. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each meaning.
The most common way to say 'one piece' when counting items. Use with the appropriate counter if the item has a specific shape or type.
One piece of cake, please.
One piece of the puzzle is missing.
Used for small, often round or compact objects. More specific than 一つ.
I ate one piece of apple. (or one apple)
Used for flat objects like paper, slices, or clothing items.
One piece of paper, please.
I ordered one piece of pizza. (or one whole pizza)
Referring to a single-piece article of clothing, such as a dress or a one-piece swimsuit.
A loanword from English, commonly used for a one-piece dress. Can also refer to a one-piece swimsuit in context.
I'm wearing a new one-piece dress today.
Specifically a one-piece swimsuit. 水着 means swimsuit.
Please wear a one-piece swimsuit at the pool.
Casual abbreviation of ワンピース, used in informal conversation.
That one-piece is cute.
Referring to something that is a single, complete unit, not divided into parts.
The English phrase 'one piece' is not directly translated as a single Japanese word in most contexts. Use counters or specific terms depending on what you are counting.
Japanese uses counters (助数詞) for different types of objects. 一つ is the generic counter, but using the specific counter (e.g., 枚 for flat objects, 個 for small objects) sounds more natural.
I bought a summer one-piece.
These tools are sold as one piece (one set).