Translation guide
A device for measuring distance, often used in photography, golf, hunting, or surveying. Japanese uses different terms depending on the context.
A device on a camera that measures distance to help with focusing, or a camera type that uses such a device.
The most common term for a camera range finder, borrowed from English. Used for both the focusing mechanism and the camera type.
このレンジファインダーカメラは軽くて持ち運びやすい。
This rangefinder camera is light and easy to carry.
Literally 'distance meter'. A more technical term, sometimes used for the focusing aid in older cameras.
このカメラの距離計はとても正確だ。
The rangefinder on this camera is very accurate.
A handheld device or app that measures distance to the hole or hazards on a golf course.
Specifically a laser rangefinder, the most common type used in golf. Often shortened to just 距離計 in context.
ゴルフでレーザー距離計を使うと、正確な距離がわかる。
Using a laser rangefinder in golf lets you know the exact distance.
Explicitly a golf rangefinder. Used in product names and descriptions.
このゴルフ距離計はスロープ機能付きです。
This golf rangefinder has a slope function.
A device mounted on a weapon or used by a spotter to measure distance to a target.
Standard term for a laser rangefinder used in hunting or tactical situations.
狩猟用のレーザー距離計は防水機能が重要だ。
Waterproofing is important for a hunting laser rangefinder.
A more formal or military term for a rangefinder, often an optical coincidence or stereoscopic type. Not typically used for consumer devices.
戦車には測距儀が搭載されている。
The tank is equipped with a rangefinder.
Generic term, can be used but less specific than レーザー距離計.
An instrument for measuring distances in land surveying or building layout.
Commonly used for handheld laser distance meters in construction and surveying.
現場でレーザー距離計を使って部屋の寸法を測った。
I measured the room dimensions on site using a laser rangefinder.
A more precise surveying instrument, often a total station or EDM. Literally 'light wave distance meter'.
測量には光波測距儀が欠かせない。
A light wave rangefinder is indispensable for surveying.
Generic term, may be used in less formal contexts.
The best translation depends heavily on the field. For cameras, レンジファインダー is standard. For golf and hunting, レーザー距離計 is most common. In formal or military contexts, 測距儀 may appear.
Directly translating 'range finder' as 範囲探し機 or similar will not be understood. Use the established terms above.
Sometimes used for golf rangefinders, but less common than 距離計. May be understood from context.
彼はゴルフでレンジファインダーを使っている。
He uses a rangefinder for golf.
The sniper measures the distance to the target with a rangefinder.
This rangefinder can measure up to 100 meters.