Translation guide
The English word "seam" refers to a line where two pieces of material are joined, or a line or mark resembling this. In Japanese, different words are used depending on the context: sewing, geology, welding, anatomy, etc. This guide covers the most common and useful expressions for learners.
The line where two pieces of fabric are stitched together.
The standard word for a seam in sewing. Refers to the line of stitching joining two pieces of fabric.
This seam is coming undone.
Please sew the seam straight.
Seam allowance – the extra fabric between the stitching and the edge. Important in sewing instructions.
The seam allowance is 1.5 cm.
A joint or seam where two parts meet, not necessarily stitched. Can be used for fabric but is more general.
Press the seam of the fabric with an iron.
A layer of mineral or coal in the ground.
The line where two metal pieces are joined by welding.
A line or junction between body parts, like the skull or skin.
A line or mark resembling a seam, often used metaphorically.
Expressions like "bursting at the seams" or "fall apart at the seams".
Means "about to burst" and is used for "bursting at the seams" when referring to fullness or overcrowding.
The venue was bursting at the seams with people.
To collapse or fall apart. Can be used for "fall apart at the seams" in a figurative sense.
His plan fell apart at the seams.
To come apart at the seams (literally for fabric, figuratively for relationships or systems).
The loanword シーム (shiimu) is rarely used and sounds unnatural in most contexts. Stick to the native Japanese words listed above.
縫い目 (nuime) is specifically for stitched seams in fabric. 継ぎ目 (tsugime) is for joints or seams in pipes, metal, wood, etc. Use the right one for the material.
There is a thick coal seam in this area.
Water is leaking from the pipe seam.
The seam of the wound is clean.
Draw a thin seam on the paper.
二人の関係がほころび始めた。
Their relationship started to come apart at the seams.