Translation guide
The English word 'stars' can refer to celestial bodies, famous people, or symbols. This guide covers how to express these meanings naturally in Japanese.
Referring to stars in the night sky, astronomy, or as physical objects.
The most common and general word for 'star' or 'stars'. Can be used for any celestial star, including the sun (as a star). Plural is often implied by context; no plural marker is needed.
今夜は星がきれいですね。
The stars are beautiful tonight, aren't they?
星がたくさん見える。
I can see a lot of stars.
Technical term for 'fixed star' (as opposed to planets). Used in astronomy.
太陽は恒星の一つです。
The sun is one of the stars.
Referring to a famous actor, singer, athlete, etc.
Loanword from English, widely used for celebrities in entertainment, sports, etc. Can be used for both singular and plural.
彼はハリウッドスターだ。
He is a Hollywood star.
その映画には有名なスターがたくさん出ている。
Many famous stars appear in that movie.
Literally 'popular person'. Can be used for stars who are well-liked, but has a slightly different nuance than 'celebrity'.
Referring to a star shape (★), ratings (e.g., 5-star), or asterisks.
Also used for star shapes and ratings. For example, a 5-star hotel is '五つ星ホテル'.
このレストランは三つ星です。
This restaurant has three stars.
星のマークを描いてください。
Please draw a star mark.
Sometimes used in compound words like 'スターマーク' (star mark), but '星' is more common for shapes.
Referring to fate or luck associated with stars.
Refers to astrological luck or fortune based on star alignment. Often used in horoscopes.
今月の星回りは良いです。
This month's star alignment is good.
General word for 'fate' or 'destiny'. Not directly 'stars', but used in similar contexts.
General term for 'famous person' or 'celebrity'. Not specific to entertainment, but can be used in similar contexts.
彼女はテレビでよく見る有名人だ。
She is a celebrity often seen on TV.
彼はクラスの人気者だ。
He is the star of the class.
Put on a star-shaped sticker.
それは運命だ。
It's written in the stars.