Translation guide
An overhand throw is a throwing motion where the arm is raised above the shoulder and the object is released from above. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through specific verbs and descriptive phrases depending on the context, such as sports, casual throwing, or formal descriptions.
To throw something using an overhand motion, in everyday situations.
Literally 'throw from above', this is the most straightforward and common way to describe an overhand throw in casual contexts.
ボールを上から投げて。
Throw the ball overhand.
Uses the loanword 'overhand' and is common in sports contexts, especially baseball.
彼はオーバーハンドで投げるのが得意だ。
He is good at throwing overhand.
A noun meaning 'overhand throw', often used in sports like baseball or sumo. Less common in everyday speech.
ピッチャーは上手投げで投球した。
The pitcher threw with an overhand motion.
Specifically referring to an overhand pitching motion in baseball.
The standard term for an overhand pitching delivery in baseball.
彼はオーバースローから速球を投げる。
He throws a fastball from an overhand delivery.
Also used in baseball contexts, but 'オーバースロー' is more specific and common.
Describing an overhand throw in sports other than baseball, such as cricket or American football.
A direct loanword used in various sports to mean 'overhand throw'.
クリケットではオーバーハンドスローが基本だ。
In cricket, an overhand throw is fundamental.
A general phrase that works in any sport context when explaining the motion.
クォーターバックは上から投げる。
The quarterback throws overhand.
To contrast with an underhand throw, use '下から投げる' (したからなげる) for 'throw underhand'. In baseball, 'アンダースロー' is the term for underhand pitching.
彼は下から投げるのが好きだ。
He likes to throw underhand.
In sports contexts, loanwords like 'オーバーハンド' and 'オーバースロー' are very common and often preferred over native Japanese phrases. However, in everyday conversation, '上から投げる' is more natural.
上手投げの投手は球に角度をつけやすい。
Overhand pitchers can easily put angle on the ball.