Translation guide
The English word "pictorial" refers to something expressed in pictures or containing pictures. This guide covers how to express this concept naturally in Japanese, focusing on common adjectives, nouns, and descriptive phrases.
Describing something that uses pictures to convey information, such as a book, diagram, or representation.
A common adjective meaning 'illustrated' or 'with pictures'. Used for books, articles, etc.
これは絵入りの説明書です。
This is a pictorial instruction manual.
Means 'illustrated with diagrams' or 'graphic'. Often used for technical or explanatory materials.
図解の手引きが付いています。
A pictorial guide is included.
A phrase meaning 'expressed in pictures'. More descriptive than a single adjective.
歴史を絵で表した本です。
It's a book that presents history in a pictorial way.
Literally 'pictorial' or 'picturesque'. Can sound formal or artistic. Less common in everyday speech.
絵画的な表現が特徴です。
It features pictorial expression.
Referring to a magazine, book, or record that is primarily composed of pictures.
A 'photo book' or 'photobook'. The most natural term for a publication consisting mainly of photographs.
この写真集は美しい風景を集めています。
This pictorial book collects beautiful landscapes.
A 'book of paintings' or 'art book'. Used for collections of artwork.
A 'picture book', typically for children. Can be used for any book where pictures dominate.
An 'illustrated reference book' or 'encyclopedia'. Often used for nature guides, etc.
Referring to a single image, chart, or diagram that explains something visually.
A general word for 'diagram', 'figure', or 'illustration'. Commonly used in textbooks and manuals.
図1を参照してください。
Please refer to the pictorial diagram (Figure 1).
An 'illustration', often hand-drawn or digital. Very common in casual contexts.
A 'picture' or 'drawing'. Simple and widely understood.
この絵が全体の流れを示しています。
This pictorial drawing shows the overall flow.
English sometimes uses 'pictorial' as a noun (e.g., 'a pictorial of the event'). In Japanese, specify the type of publication: 写真集 (photo book), 画集 (art book), or 特集記事 (feature article with photos).
While 絵画的 is a direct translation, it sounds formal and is often used in artistic or literary contexts. For everyday use, prefer 絵入りの or イラスト入りの.
I bought a pictorial book of a famous painter.
I'm making a pictorial book for children.
I looked it up in a pictorial encyclopedia of animals.
説明のためにイラストを入れました。
I included a pictorial illustration for explanation.