Translation guide
The English word "palm" has two main meanings: the inner surface of the hand, and a type of tropical tree. These are completely different words in Japanese, so it's important to choose the right one based on context.
The inner surface of the hand, from the wrist to the base of the fingers.
The most common and natural word for the palm of the hand. Used in everyday conversation.
Please put it on your palm.
The kanji for palm, often read as てのひら. It can also be read as しょう in compounds, but as a standalone word it's usually てのひら. More common in written language.
A poetic or literary word for the palm of the hand. Rarely used in modern conversation.
A tropical tree with large, divided leaves, often associated with beaches and warm climates.
The general word for palm tree. Often written in katakana. Can refer to various species.
In English, the same word is used for both, but in Japanese they are completely different. Using 手のひら for a tree or ヤシ for a hand will cause confusion.
A palm leaf fell onto my palm.
He turned his palm upward.
掌を合わせて祈る。
Put your palms together and pray.
A petal fell onto my palm.
ビーチにヤシの木が並んでいる。
Palm trees are lined up on the beach.
I cracked open a coconut and drank from it.
The kanji for palm tree, same reading as ヤシ. Used in more formal or written contexts, or in compound words.
Palm trees are a symbol of the tropics.
A specific type of palm tree, the hemp palm or windmill palm, often used in Japanese gardens. Not a general term for all palms.
I planted a windmill palm in the garden.