Translation guide
A pattern of filled circles, often on fabric. In Japanese, the most common term is 水玉模様 (mizutama moyō), literally 'water drop pattern'. There are also casual and specific terms.
Describing a pattern of round dots, typically on clothing, accessories, or fabric.
The standard term for polka dot pattern. 水玉 means 'water drop', and 模様 means 'pattern'. Used for any polka dot design.
She is wearing a polka dot dress.
This polka dot tie is cute, isn't it?
Loanword from English 'dot'. Often used in fashion contexts, especially for smaller dots. Can be combined with 柄 (pattern) as ドット柄.
Dot-pattern skirts are in fashion.
Short for 水玉模様, used in casual conversation or as a noun modifier. Can also mean 'water drop' literally, but context clarifies.
I bought a polka dot blouse.
Emphasizing bigger, more prominent dots, sometimes associated with retro or pop fashion.
Describing tiny dots, like pin dots.
水玉模様 is the most natural and widely understood term. ドット is more casual and trendy, often used in fashion magazines. For formal or traditional contexts, stick with 水玉模様.
Avoid saying ポルカドット (poruka dotto) as a direct translation. While some Japanese may understand it, it's not commonly used and sounds unnatural.