Translation guide
The English word 'pen' most commonly refers to a writing instrument. In Japanese, the basic word is ペン (pen), a loanword from English. However, there are also native Japanese words for specific types of pens and related stationery. This guide covers how to talk about pens in various contexts.
Referring to a pen in general, any type of writing instrument that uses ink.
The most common and general word for 'pen'. It is a loanword from English and covers ballpoint pens, fountain pens, felt-tip pens, etc. Used in everyday conversation.
ペンを貸してください。
Please lend me a pen.
This pen is easy to write with.
A more formal term meaning 'writing instrument'. It can refer to pens, pencils, etc. Often used in written or technical contexts.
Do you have a writing instrument?
Specifically a ballpoint pen.
The standard word for 'ballpoint pen'. A contraction of 'ball pen'.
Please write with a ballpoint pen.
A pen with a nib that uses liquid ink.
The standard word for 'fountain pen'. Literally 'ten-thousand year brush', reflecting its durability.
My father collects fountain pens.
A pen with a felt tip, often used for drawing or coloring.
A common term for felt-tip pens, often used for signatures or writing. Brand name originally, but now generic.
I wrote my name with a felt-tip pen.
From 'Magic Marker', a brand name used generically for permanent markers. Often implies a thicker tip.
A direct loanword for 'felt pen', less common than サインペン or マジック.
A pen with a brush-like tip, used for calligraphy or art.
A pen with a brush tip, combining 'brush' (筆) and 'pen' (ペン). Commonly used for writing addresses or calligraphy.
I write New Year's cards with a brush pen.
A small fenced area for animals like sheep or pigs.
マジックで線を引いて。
Draw a line with a marker.
フェルトペンはにじみやすい。
Felt pens tend to bleed through.
Put the pigs in the pen.