Translation guide
The English word 'railroad' refers to the entire railway system, including tracks, trains, and infrastructure. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 鉄道 (tetsudō), which covers the concept broadly. For physical tracks, use 線路 (senro). When referring to a railway company, 鉄道会社 (tetsudō gaisha) is used. Note that 'railroad' is more common in American English, while 'railway' is more common in British English, but both translate similarly.
The overall system of trains, tracks, stations, and operations.
The standard term for 'railroad' or 'railway' as a system. Used in formal and general contexts.
日本の鉄道は時間に正確です。
Japan's railroads are punctual.
鉄道の歴史を学ぶ。
Learn about the history of railroads.
Specifically refers to the railway network or system of lines.
この地域の鉄道網は発達している。
The railroad network in this region is well-developed.
The actual rails, ties, and roadbed on which trains run.
Refers to the physical railway tracks. Commonly used in everyday speech.
線路の近くに住んでいます。
I live near the railroad tracks.
線路に石を置いてはいけません。
Don't put stones on the railroad tracks.
Technical term for 'track' or 'railway track', often used in engineering contexts.
A business that operates trains and manages railway infrastructure.
Standard term for a railroad company.
彼は鉄道会社に勤めている。
He works for a railroad company.
Abbreviation for Japan Railways, the major railroad group in Japan. Often used in conversation.
JRで東京まで行く。
Go to Tokyo by JR (railroad).
Using trains for travel or shipping, often in contrast to other methods.
Means 'by railroad' or 'by train'. Used to indicate the mode of transportation.
鉄道で旅行するのが好きです。
I like traveling by railroad.
貨物を鉄道で運ぶ。
Transport goods by railroad.
A place where a road and railway track intersect at the same level.
A building or place where trains stop for passengers or freight.
General word for 'station', used for train stations. In context, it implies a railroad station.
駅まで歩いて10分です。
It's a 10-minute walk to the railroad station.
Explicitly 'railroad station', used when distinction from other types of stations is needed.
この町には鉄道駅が二つある。
This town has two railroad stations.
鉄道 (tetsudō) refers to the railway as a system or institution, while 線路 (senro) refers to the physical tracks. Use 鉄道 when talking about the railroad industry, history, or network. Use 線路 when referring to the actual rails on the ground.
鉄道の安全は重要だ。
Railroad safety is important.
線路の点検を行う。
Inspect the railroad tracks.
The direct katakana transliteration レールロード is not used in Japanese. Always use 鉄道 or 線路 depending on context.
Measure the gauge of the railroad track.