Translation guide
A boat propelled by sails. In Japanese, the most common word is ヨット (yotto), but it often implies a leisure or racing sailboat. For traditional Japanese sailboats or general sailing vessels, other terms are used.
A small to medium-sized boat with sails, used for recreation or sport.
The most common word for a sailboat, especially modern leisure or racing sailboats. Borrowed from English 'yacht', but in Japanese it covers a wider range of sailboats.
週末にヨットに乗るのが趣味です。
My hobby is sailing a sailboat on weekends.
彼は新しいヨットを買った。
He bought a new sailboat.
Literally 'sail ship'. Refers to sailing vessels in general, often larger or historical ships. Can sound technical or formal.
港に古い帆船が停泊している。
An old sailboat is anchored in the harbor.
Direct loan from English 'sailing boat'. Less common than ヨット, but understood. May be used in instructional contexts.
セーリングボートの操縦を習っています。
I'm learning to operate a sailboat.
A sailboat of traditional Japanese design, often with a single square sail.
Traditional Japanese boat, often with a sail. Specifically refers to Japanese-style wooden boats.
この和船は江戸時代に使われていた。
This traditional Japanese sailboat was used in the Edo period.
A specific type of traditional Japanese sailing vessel used for cargo transport in the Edo period. Very specific historical term.
A very small sailboat, often used for learning or short trips.
Borrowed from 'dinghy'. Refers to a small open sailboat, often used in sailing schools.
子供たちはディンギーでセーリングを習っている。
The children are learning sailing in a dinghy.
Literally 'small yacht'. A descriptive phrase for a small sailboat.
小型ヨットのレースが開かれた。
A small sailboat race was held.
In English, 'yacht' often implies a large, luxurious motor or sailing vessel. In Japanese, ヨット typically refers to any sailboat used for sport or leisure, regardless of size or luxury. For a large motor yacht, use クルーザー (cruiser) or 大型ヨット (large yacht).
弁才船は千石船とも呼ばれる。
Bezaisen are also called sengokubune.