Translation guide
How to talk about stage settings, scenery, and theatrical backdrops in Japanese.
The physical arrangement of scenery, props, and backdrops on a stage for a play, opera, or similar performance.
The circumstances, environment, or context in which something takes place, not necessarily a physical stage.
Literally 'stage', but often used figuratively to mean the setting or scene for an event or activity.
舞台装置 is a formal, technical term for stage machinery and sets, while セット is a casual loanword used broadly for any set in theater, film, or TV. In everyday conversation, セット is more common.
Inspect the stage machinery.
General term for stage machinery, sets, and scenery. Used in professional theater contexts.
This stage setting is very elaborate.
Refers to the artistic design of the stage, including sets, lighting, and costumes. Emphasizes the visual art aspect.
She is in charge of the stage design.
Loanword from English 'set'. Commonly used in film, TV, and theater for the physical set or scenery.
The stage set collapsed.
Means 'background' or 'backdrop'. Can refer to painted backdrops or the general setting of a scene.
The backdrop is very beautiful.
Specifically refers to large stage props and set pieces (e.g., furniture, trees, walls). Contrasts with 小道具 (small props).
Let's change the arrangement of the large props.
This town is the setting of the story.
Means 'setting' in the sense of a fictional world or scenario, often used for novels, games, and films.
The game's setting is medieval Europe.
Also used figuratively for the background or context of an event or situation.
Investigate the background of the incident.
セットを組み立てる。
Assemble the set.