Translation guide
In Japanese, the term 'special character' can refer to symbols, punctuation, or characters with specific functions in writing or computing. The most common equivalent is 特殊文字 (tokushu moji), but depending on context, other terms like 記号 (kigō) for symbols or 特殊記号 (tokushu kigō) may be used. This guide covers how to express the concept naturally in various situations.
Referring to non-alphanumeric symbols or characters with special functions, such as @, #, $, %, &, *, etc.
The standard term for 'special character' in computing and typography. It covers symbols like @, #, $, etc., as well as control characters.
パスワードには特殊文字を含めてください。
Please include a special character in your password.
このフォームでは特殊文字は使用できません。
Special characters cannot be used in this form.
Often used interchangeably with 特殊文字, but can emphasize symbols rather than letters. Common in contexts like passwords or mathematical notation.
特殊記号を入力してください。
Please enter a special symbol.
Referring to graphic symbols like punctuation, currency signs, or mathematical operators in everyday writing.
A broad term for 'symbol' or 'mark'. It can refer to punctuation, mathematical symbols, musical notation, etc. Not limited to computing.
この記号は何を意味しますか？
What does this symbol mean?
地図上の記号を覚える。
Memorize the symbols on the map.
Can mean 'sign', 'mark', or 'code'. Often used in technical contexts like 'Morse code' (モールス符号) or 'mathematical sign' (数学符号). Less common for everyday special characters.
Referring to a character in a narrative who has special abilities or a unique role. This is a different sense of 'character' (person/entity).
Uses the loanword キャラクター for 'character' (fictional person). 特殊な means 'special'. This is the most natural way to say 'special character' in entertainment contexts.
このゲームには特殊なキャラクターがたくさん登場する。
Many special characters appear in this game.
特別な means 'special' in the sense of 'exceptional' or 'particular'. Slightly less technical than 特殊な.
彼はアニメの中で特別なキャラクターだ。
He is a special character in the anime.
English 'character' can mean a written symbol or a person in a story. In Japanese, these are different words: 文字 (moji) for written characters, and キャラクター (kyarakutā) or 人物 (jinbutsu) for fictional persons. Use 特殊文字 for special symbols, and 特殊なキャラクター for special fictional characters.
When websites or apps ask for 'special characters' in passwords, they usually mean symbols like !, @, #, $. In Japanese, this is commonly expressed as 特殊文字 or 記号. You might see instructions like 「パスワードには英字、数字、特殊文字を組み合わせてください」 (Combine letters, numbers, and special characters in your password).
plus sign and minus sign