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.
General term for stage machinery, sets, and scenery. Used in professional theater contexts.
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.
舞台装置の点検をする。
Inspect the stage machinery.
セットを組み立てる。
Assemble the set.
この舞台装置はとても精巧だ。
This stage setting is very elaborate.
Refers to the artistic design of the stage, including sets, lighting, and costumes. Emphasizes the visual art aspect.
彼女は舞台美術を担当している。
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.
舞台のセットが崩れた。
The stage set collapsed.
Means 'background' or 'backdrop'. Can refer to painted backdrops or the general setting of a scene.
背景がとても美しい。
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).
大道具の配置を変えよう。
Let's change the arrangement of the large props.
この街が物語の舞台だ。
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.
ゲームの舞台設定は中世ヨーロッパだ。
The game's setting is medieval Europe.
Also used figuratively for the background or context of an event or situation.
事件の背景を調べる。
Investigate the background of the incident.