Translation guide
In Japanese, the word for 'ribbon' is most commonly リボン, a loanword from English. However, depending on the context—such as traditional Japanese culture, gift wrapping, or decorative arts—other terms like 飾り紐 or 水引 may be more appropriate. This guide covers the most useful expressions for an English-speaking learner.
ribbon (general)
A strip of fabric used for tying hair, decorating gifts, or as a fashion accessory.
The most common and versatile word for 'ribbon' in modern Japanese. Used for hair ribbons, gift ribbons, and decorative ribbons on clothing.
She is wearing a red ribbon in her hair.
Please put a ribbon on the present.
Literally 'decorative cord'. Refers to a ribbon-like cord used in traditional Japanese crafts, clothing, or packaging. More specific than リボン and often implies a braided or twisted cord.
Tie a decorative cord on the kimono sash.
A ribbon used specifically for wrapping gifts, often in a decorative or ceremonial context.
Traditional Japanese decorative cord made from twisted paper, often used on gifts and envelopes for special occasions. While not a fabric ribbon, it serves a similar decorative function and is culturally significant.
A mizuhiki cord is attached to the celebratory gift envelope.
Also commonly used for gift wrapping in modern, Western-style contexts. If you are wrapping a birthday present in non-traditional paper, リボン is perfectly natural.
A strip of colored fabric worn to indicate an honor, award, or membership.
The 'ribbon' interface in software like Microsoft Office.
In computing contexts, the loanword リボン is used exactly as in English. No native Japanese word is used for this.
Please click the 'Home' tab on the ribbon.
リボン is the default for modern, Western-style ribbons. 水引 is a traditional paper cord used for ceremonial gift wrapping. 飾り紐 is a broader term for decorative cords, often used in traditional arts and crafts. Use リボン unless the context is specifically traditional Japanese.
Put a ribbon on Valentine's Day chocolates.
Mizuhiki is used on wedding favors.
In English, 'ribbon' can mean a long, narrow strip of material (e.g., 'a ribbon of road'). This metaphorical use does not translate directly to リボン. Instead, use words like 帯 (おび) or 細長いもの (ほそながいもの) depending on context.
She tied a ribbon in her hair.
The present was wrapped with a beautiful ribbon.
誕生日プレゼントにきれいなリボンを巻いた。
I wrapped a pretty ribbon around the birthday present.
The ribbon of the medal was red and white stripes.