Translation guide
A tool for applying paint, typically with bristles. In Japanese, the word depends on the type of painting: art painting vs. house/construction painting. The most common general word is 絵筆 (for art), while 刷毛 and ペンキ刷毛 are used for broader application like walls.
A brush used for creating paintings on canvas or paper.
The standard word for an artist's paintbrush. Used for oil, watercolor, acrylic, etc.
I bought a new paintbrush.
General word for brush (including calligraphy brushes). In context of painting, it can mean paintbrush, but 絵筆 is more specific.
A more formal or literary term for artist's paintbrush. Rare in everyday speech.
A brush used for painting houses, furniture, or other large surfaces, often with oil-based or latex paint.
General word for a flat brush used for applying paint, varnish, or glue to surfaces. Often wider than an artist's brush.
A brush used for writing characters or ink painting, typically with a bamboo handle and animal hair.
The standard word for a calligraphy brush. Also used for sumi-e (ink painting).
A brush used for applying cosmetics.
Common loanword for makeup brush.
This paintbrush is very easy to paint with.
Please wash the paintbrush.
He decided to take up the paintbrush (i.e., become a painter).
I painted the wall with a paintbrush.
This paintbrush sheds bristles easily.
Specifically a brush for paint (ペンキ). Emphasizes the use with paint rather than varnish or glue.
I'm going to buy a paintbrush.
Technical term for a painting/coating brush. Used in professional or industrial contexts.
There is a wide range of sizes for paintbrushes.
筆で字を書く。
Write characters with a brush.
This brush has a soft tip.
Literally 'hair brush', emphasizing the bristles. Often used in contrast to 硬筆 (hard pen/pencil).
Paint a picture with a brush.
I bought a new makeup brush.
Native Japanese term for makeup brush, less common than メイクブラシ but still used.
Keep makeup brushes clean.
A house painter uses a paintbrush.
The direct loanword ペイントブラシ (peinto burashi) is not commonly used in Japanese. It may be understood but sounds unnatural. Use 絵筆 or 刷毛 instead.