Translation guide
The flat triangular bone on the upper back, connecting the upper arm to the collarbone. In Japanese, the most common term is 肩甲骨 (けんこうこつ), used in both medical and everyday contexts. A more colloquial term is 肩胛骨 (けんこうこつ), though it is less common. In casual conversation, people may simply refer to the area around the shoulder blade as 肩 (かた) or 背中 (せなか) depending on context.
shoulder blade (anatomical)
Referring to the shoulder blade bone itself, in medical, anatomical, or general descriptive contexts.
The standard anatomical term for 'shoulder blade'. Used in medical settings, sports, and everyday conversation when specifically referring to the bone.
I have pain around my shoulder blade.
An alternative kanji for 肩甲骨, but less common. The reading is the same. It may appear in older texts or some medical contexts, but is preferred.
Talking about the area of the shoulder blade without using the precise anatomical term, often in casual conversation about pain, massage, or body parts.
In casual Japanese, people often say 肩 (shoulder) or 背中 (back) to refer to the general area around the shoulder blade, especially when talking about stiffness or pain. The specific bone is not always named.
My shoulders are stiff. (often includes the shoulder blade area)
This part of my back hurts. (pointing to shoulder blade area)
Literally 'shoulder bone'. This can be understood as shoulder blade in context, but it's ambiguous and less precise. It might refer to the collarbone or other bones. Use with caution.
Not a precise anatomical term; may cause confusion. Better to use 肩甲骨 for clarity.
Expressions involving the shoulder blade in English that may not translate directly.
English idioms like 'a chip on one's shoulder' or 'shoulder to the wheel' do not involve the shoulder blade specifically. Translate the meaning, not the body part.
He has a chip on his shoulder. (lit. He is always angry.)
Use 肩甲骨 when you need to be precise, such as in medical contexts, sports training, or when describing a specific injury. In everyday conversation about stiffness or massage, 肩 (shoulder) is usually sufficient and more natural.
Let's do a stretch that moves the shoulder blades.
Fractures of the shoulder blade are rare.
The bone in my shoulder is sticking out. (could be shoulder blade or collarbone)