Translation guide
The English word 'shuttle' has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common ones for learners: a vehicle that travels back and forth regularly, the space shuttle, and the shuttlecock used in badminton. It also touches on the weaving tool and the verb meaning.
A transport service that makes frequent short journeys between two places.
The most common and direct translation for a shuttle bus. Often used for airport shuttles, hotel shuttles, etc.
There is a shuttle bus to the airport.
Literally 'pick-up/drop-off bus'. Used for courtesy buses provided by hotels, companies, etc.
I used the hotel's shuttle bus.
Can refer to a shuttle flight or shuttle service. More general than シャトルバス.
The shuttle flights between Tokyo and Osaka have been increased.
Specifically refers to an airport limousine bus, a type of shuttle bus connecting airports and city centers.
I took the limousine bus from Narita Airport to the city center.
A spacecraft designed for repeated use, especially the US Space Shuttle program.
The standard term for the space shuttle. Often used with the definite article in English, but Japanese does not use articles.
The space shuttle was retired in 2011.
The object hit back and forth in badminton.
A tool used in weaving to carry the weft thread back and forth.
To travel back and forth frequently between two places.
The shuttlecock broke, so I took out a new one.
This loom has an automatic shuttle.
I spend all day shuttling the kids between school and cram school.