Translation guide
The English word 'rag' has several distinct meanings: a piece of old cloth, a low-quality newspaper, and a ragtime music piece. This guide covers how to express each in Japanese.
A torn or worn piece of cloth, often used for cleaning.
General word for rag, old cloth, or something worn out. Can also be used metaphorically for something shabby.
A newspaper that is considered sensationalist or of poor quality.
Literally 'third-rate newspaper', a common way to dismiss a publication as low-quality or tabloid-like.
A piece of music in ragtime style.
He wiped the car with a rag.
Those clothes are in rags.
Specifically a cleaning cloth or dustcloth, often made from old fabric.
Please wipe the floor with a rag.
A piece of cloth, not necessarily old or used for cleaning. More neutral than 'rag'.
Wrap it in a rag.
That rag isn't worth reading.
Means 'vulgar newspaper', emphasizing sensationalism and lack of taste.
He only reads rags.
Specifically a gossip paper or tabloid. Closer to 'tabloid' than 'rag', but can be used in similar contexts.
That rag is full of lies.
The loanword for ragtime music. 'Rag' as a short form is not common; use the full term.
He played a rag on the piano.
Shortened form sometimes used among musicians, but not widely understood. Use with caution.
This rag is difficult.