Translation guide
The English word 'sentence' can refer to a grammatical unit, a legal punishment, or a phrase in context. This guide helps learners express these meanings naturally in Japanese.
A set of words that is complete in itself, typically containing a subject and predicate, conveying a statement, question, exclamation, or command.
The most common and general word for a grammatical sentence. Used in both spoken and written contexts.
この文は短いです。
This sentence is short.
Please read the next sentence.
Refers to sentences in the context of a larger piece of writing, or to writing style. Often used for 'text' or 'passage'.
I don't understand the meaning of this sentence/passage.
Loanword from English, used mainly in linguistic or educational contexts. Less common than 文.
Please translate the English sentence into Japanese.
The punishment assigned to a defendant found guilty in a court of law.
Refers to the court's decision or judgment, including the sentence. Commonly used in legal contexts.
The judge handed down a sentence of 10 years in prison.
Means 'punishment' or 'penalty'. Often used in compounds like 懲役刑 (prison sentence) or 死刑 (death sentence).
A more formal term for penalty or punishment, including sentences. Used in legal documents.
A short group of words that expresses a particular idea, often used in language learning.
Can also be used for a phrase or expression, especially in grammar contexts.
Please memorize this sentence/phrase.
Loanword from English 'phrase'. Commonly used in casual and educational settings.
Refers to a turn of phrase or way of saying something. More about expression style.
文 (ぶん) is a single sentence, while 文章 (ぶんしょう) refers to a passage, text, or writing as a whole. Use 文 for individual sentences and 文章 for longer compositions.
Is this sentence correct?
Please summarize this passage.
While 終身刑 (しゅうしんけい) is correct, the literal translation 人生の文 is nonsense. Always use the legal term.
Write three sentences about your hobby.
The judge gave him a light sentence.
He received a life sentence.
その犯罪に対する刑罰は重い。
The sentence for that crime is severe.
便利なフレーズを教えてください。
Please teach me some useful phrases.
That phrase/sentence isn't natural.