Translation guide
A book intended to be consulted for specific information rather than read cover-to-cover. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 参考書 (sankōsho), but the appropriate term depends on the type of reference and context.
A book used as a study aid or for looking up information, such as a textbook supplement or a guide.
The most common translation for 'reference book' in educational contexts. It refers to books used alongside textbooks for study, such as test prep books or supplementary guides.
I bought a reference book for the exam.
This reference book is very easy to understand.
A handbook or manual, often compact and covering a specific subject. Common in titles like 化学便覧 (Chemistry Handbook).
Loanword from English, used similarly to 'handbook'. Often implies a practical, compact guide.
A book meant for looking up facts, such as an encyclopedia, dictionary, or almanac.
A formal term for reference books in libraries, including encyclopedias, dictionaries, and atlases. Often used in library contexts.
I looked it up in the reference section of the library.
Specifically an encyclopedia or a comprehensive reference work on a subject. Often appears in compound words like 百科事典 (encyclopedia).
A book providing instructions or detailed information for a specific activity or profession.
A guidebook or manual that provides step-by-step instructions. Often used for practical tasks.
Please follow this manual for operation.
Loanword from English, commonly used for instruction manuals, especially for products or software.
Also used for compact reference books in professional fields, like a medical handbook.
参考書 is for personal study aids, while 参考図書 is for library reference materials that are often non-circulating.
You can buy sankōsho at a bookstore, but sankōtosho are often only available in libraries.
In English, 'reference book' can mean any book used for reference. In Japanese, 参考書 specifically means a study aid. For a dictionary or encyclopedia, use 辞書, 事典, or 参考図書.
I need a reference book for the JLPT.
This library has a large collection of reference books.
化学便覧で調べてみてください。
Please look it up in the chemistry handbook.
This handbook contains all the necessary information.
Loanword from English, used in library science or academic contexts. Less common in everyday speech.
This reference book cannot be checked out.
I looked up the word in the encyclopedia.
マニュアルを読まずに使い始めた。
I started using it without reading the manual.
医師はいつも便覧を持ち歩いている。
Doctors always carry a handbook with them.