Translation guide
The English word 'plait' refers to a braided length of hair or other material, or the action of braiding. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 三つ編み (mitsuami) for a three-strand braid, but other terms exist for different styles. The verb 'to plait' is usually expressed as 編む (amu) or 三つ編みにする (mitsuami ni suru).
Referring to a hairstyle where hair is divided into three or more strands and interwoven.
The standard word for a three-strand braid. It is the most common and natural way to refer to a plait in everyday conversation.
彼女は長い髪を三つ編みにしている。
She has her long hair in a plait.
三つ編みがよく似合っていますね。
That plait really suits you.
Refers to a braid that is incorporated close to the scalp, like a French braid or Dutch braid. It emphasizes the technique of weaving hair in from the sides.
編み込みのヘアスタイルが人気です。
Braided hairstyles (like French braids) are popular.
A somewhat dated or literary term for a braid, often associated with traditional or old-fashioned imagery. It can refer to a single braid or pigtail braids.
Referring to a braided object made from flexible materials like straw, rope, or leather.
A general term for a braided cord or string. It can be used for various materials.
麦わらで編み紐を作った。
I made a plait out of straw.
Specifically refers to a braided cord made by intertwining multiple strands, often used in traditional crafts like kimono accessories.
組み紐の技術は日本で発展した。
The technique of plaiting cords developed in Japan.
The action of weaving strands of hair together to form a plait.
The most common way to say 'to plait (hair)'. Literally 'to make into a three-strand braid'.
娘の髪を三つ編みにしてあげた。
I plaited my daughter's hair.
A general verb meaning 'to knit' or 'to braid'. It can be used for hair, but 三つ編みにする is more specific and common for hair.
髪を編んでポニーテールにした。
I plaited my hair and put it in a ponytail.
Specifically means 'to braid in' or 'to incorporate into a braid', often used for French braiding or adding extensions.
The action of weaving flexible materials together to form a braided object.
The standard verb for braiding or weaving flexible materials. It covers plaiting straw, rope, etc.
わらを編んで縄を作る。
Plait straw to make a rope.
Often used for braiding cords or threads, especially in traditional crafts. It implies intertwining multiple strands.
糸を組んで美しい紐ができた。
I plaited the threads into a beautiful cord.
三つ編み (mitsuami) is a simple three-strand braid that hangs freely. 編み込み (amikomi) refers to braids that are woven close to the scalp, like French or Dutch braids. Use 三つ編み for a basic plait and 編み込み for more complex, scalp-hugging styles.
三つ編みは簡単だけど、編み込みは難しい。
A simple plait is easy, but a French braid is difficult.
There is no single Japanese verb that directly corresponds to 'to plait' in all contexts. Use 三つ編みにする for hair and 編む for materials. Avoid using プレイトする (pureito suru), which is not natural Japanese.
The girl wore her hair in plaits.
Please plait the side hair into the braid.