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.
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.
手のひらにヤシの葉が落ちた。
A palm leaf fell onto my palm.
手のひらに乗せてください。
Please put it on your palm.
彼は手のひらを上に向けた。
He turned his palm upward.
掌を合わせて祈る。
Put your palms together and pray.
たなごころに花びらが落ちた。
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.
ヤシの実を割って飲み物を飲んだ。
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.
椰子の木は南国の象徴だ。
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.
庭にシュロの木を植えた。
I planted a windmill palm in the garden.