Translation guide
How to refer to a printed edition of a book, newspaper, or other publication in Japanese, distinguishing it from digital or other formats.
The learner wants to refer to a printed version of a publication, as opposed to a digital or online version.
The most direct and common way to say 'printed edition'. Used for books, magazines, and other publications.
The printed edition of this book will be released next month.
Literally 'paper edition'. Often used in contrast with digital editions (電子版). Common in publishing contexts.
You can purchase both the paper edition and the digital edition.
Refers to a bound, physical booklet or volume. Often used for reports, catalogs, or magazines.
If you would like a printed catalog, please contact us.
Specifically refers to a letterpress or typographic edition. Used in historical or technical contexts about printing methods.
The letterpress edition of this work is extremely valuable.
The learner wants to refer specifically to the physical newspaper, as opposed to the online version.
印刷版 (insatsu-ban) is the most general term for 'printed edition'. 紙版 (kami-ban) emphasizes the material (paper) and is often used in contrast with digital. 冊子版 (sasshi-ban) implies a bound booklet and is common for reports or catalogs. For newspapers, 新聞の印刷版 or simply 紙の新聞 are natural.
Some people say the printed edition is easier to read than the digital edition.
Although プリント (purinto) means 'print', プリント版 is not a natural term for 'printed edition'. It might be understood but sounds like a direct translation. Stick to 印刷版 or 紙版.
Saying 'purinto-ban' sounds unnatural.
Recently, fewer people are reading the printed newspaper.