Translation guide
The part of clothing that covers the arm. In Japanese, the most common word is 袖 (そで). There are also specific terms for sleeve types and related expressions.
The part of a garment that covers the arm.
General word for sleeve. Used for shirts, jackets, coats, etc.
このシャツは袖が長すぎる。
The sleeves on this shirt are too long.
A protective covering for a flat object like a record or book.
A large tattoo or collection of tattoos that covers most or all of a person's arm.
Literally 'sleeve tattoo'. Commonly understood.
彼は袖のタトゥーを入れている。
He has a sleeve tattoo.
The English word 'sleeve' can also refer to a protective covering for a record or book. In Japanese, use ジャケット for records and カバー for books. Using 袖 for these would be unnatural.
袖をまくってください。
Please roll up your sleeves.
Short sleeves. Often used as a noun or adjective.
今日は暑いから半袖を着よう。
It's hot today, so I'll wear short sleeves.
Long sleeves.
冬は長袖のシャツが必要だ。
In winter, you need long-sleeved shirts.
Cuff or sleeve opening. More specific term.
袖口がほつれてきた。
The cuff is fraying.
Used for record sleeves, album covers. Loanword from English 'jacket'.
このレコードのジャケットは美しい。
The sleeve of this record is beautiful.
General cover or sleeve for books, documents, etc.
本にカバーをかける。
Put a sleeve/cover on a book.
More descriptive: 'full-arm tattoo'.
腕全体のタトゥーにしたい。
I want a full sleeve tattoo.