Translation guide
A letter that has been closed and secured, often with a seal, to ensure privacy or authenticity. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through specific nouns and verbs related to sealing.
A letter that has been sealed shut, typically with glue or a sticker, to prevent unauthorized opening.
A general term for a sealed letter, as opposed to a postcard. Commonly used in formal contexts.
Literally 'a letter with a seal', this phrase emphasizes the action of sealing. Natural in everyday speech.
I put the sealed letter in the mailbox.
A secret or confidential sealed letter, often used in historical or spy contexts.
A letter closed with a wax seal, often for official or ceremonial purposes.
In casual conversation, Japanese speakers often refer to the envelope (封筒, ふうとう) rather than the sealed letter itself. For example, '封筒に入れて送って' means 'Send it in an envelope,' implying it should be sealed.
Please send it in a sealed envelope.
Directly translating 'sealed letter' as シールドレター or 密封手紙 (みっぷうてがみ) is unnatural. Use the terms above instead.
I will send it as a sealed letter.
Please keep it as a sealed letter.
He crossed the border carrying a sealed secret letter.
I received a letter sealed with wax.
A formal term for a sealed document or letter, often with an official seal. Rare in modern usage.
A sealed letter was delivered.