Translation guide
The English phrase "right side" can refer to physical position, direction, or metaphorical correctness. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 右側 (migigawa), but the choice depends on context. This guide covers spatial, directional, and figurative uses, with notes on natural phrasing.
To refer to the right-hand part of something, such as a building, body, or page.
The most common and neutral word for 'right side'. Used for physical objects, locations, and spatial descriptions.
There is a parking lot on the right side of the building.
Who is the person on the right side of the photo?
A more general word for 'right'. Can be used alone or with particles to indicate the right side, but often less specific than 右側.
Please turn right.
There is a book on the right side of the desk.
A formal or literary term for 'right side' or 'right direction'. Rare in everyday speech.
Mountains can be seen on the right side.
To describe movement or orientation toward the right, or the right side relative to a direction of travel.
Also used for directional contexts, such as 'on the right side of the road'.
In Japan, cars drive on the left side, and the right side is the passing lane.
Literally 'right hand', but often used to mean 'on the right' or 'to the right' in directional contexts, especially when giving directions.
Means 'right direction'. Used in navigation or technical contexts.
If you go in the right direction, you'll find the station.
To express the idea of being on the correct, moral, or advantageous side of a situation.
To refer to the outer or visible side of cloth, paper, etc.
When referring to the right side of the body, Japanese often uses 右 (migi) directly with the body part, e.g., 右足 (migi ashi, right leg), rather than 右側の足 (migigawa no ashi).
右側 (migigawa) specifically means 'right side' as a location, while 右 (migi) is more general and can mean 'right' as a direction. Use 右側 when you need to emphasize the side of something.
Please turn right at the intersection.
この紙の右側に印刷されています。
It's printed on the right side of this paper.