Translation guide
The English word 'sketch' can refer to a rough drawing, a brief written description, or a short comedic scene. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each meaning.
A quick, rough drawing, often as a preliminary study or informal depiction.
The most common and direct loanword for a quick, informal drawing. Used in everyday conversation.
I did a sketch in the park.
A more formal term for a drawing or sketch, often used in art contexts. Can imply a more deliberate study.
His sketches are very delicate.
Specifically a preliminary sketch or rough draft for a painting, illustration, or design.
Draw a sketch for the mural.
A short, rough written account or outline of something.
Means 'outline' or 'summary'. Used for a brief written sketch of a plan, story, or situation.
Please give a sketch of the plan.
A slightly more literary word for 'outline' or 'gist'. Often used in storytelling contexts.
Literally 'rough explanation'. A natural phrase for a brief, not detailed description.
A rough sketch of the explanation is enough.
A short, humorous performance or skit, often as part of a comedy show.
The standard term for a comedy sketch or skit. Derived from French 'conte'.
That sketch was really funny.
Also used for a short comedic scene, though less common than コント. Often in the context of variety shows.
Literally 'short play'. Can refer to a brief theatrical sketch, often amateur or impromptu.
The action of making a rough drawing.
The most common way to say 'to sketch'. Uses the loanword with する.
She often sketches in cafes.
Formal verb for 'to sketch' or 'to draw a rough picture'.
Sketch the scenery.
To draw a preliminary sketch, especially for a larger work.
Draw a sketch before the oil painting.
スケッチ is the most common and casual term for a quick drawing. 素描 is more formal and often used in art education or criticism. 下絵 specifically refers to a preliminary draft for a final artwork, like a painting or illustration.
While スケッチ can mean a rough drawing or a comedy sketch, it is not used for a written summary or outline. Use 概要 or あらまし instead.
事件のあらましを話した。
I gave a sketch of the incident.
彼はテレビでスケッチを演じた。
He performed a sketch on TV.
文化祭で寸劇をやった。
We did a sketch at the school festival.