Translation guide
Small spots or marks on a surface. In Japanese, the most common way to describe speckles is with the noun 斑点 (はんてん) or the mimetic word まだら (斑). The choice depends on size, pattern, and context.
General term for spots, specks, or flecks. Can be used for natural markings, stains, or medical spots.
The eggshell has brown speckles.
This cloth has many small speckles on it.
Describes a mottled or patchy pattern of spots, often larger or more irregular than 斑点. Commonly used for animal coats or uneven coloring.
That dog has a black and white speckled pattern.
Literally 'dots', often used adverbially to describe something dotted or speckled with spots.
Speckles of mold have formed on the wall.
Specifically refers to freckles on human skin. Not used for inanimate objects.
She has speckles (freckles) on her face.
Referring to very small bits of something, like dust, powder, or light particles.
斑点 is the most general term for spots or specks. まだら implies a mottled, irregular pattern, often used for animals or large surfaces. 点々 emphasizes the dotted nature and is often used adverbially (点々と).
そばかす specifically means human freckles. Using it for inanimate objects would sound strange.