Translation guide
The English word 'stone' can refer to the material, a small rock, a gemstone, or a unit of weight. This guide covers the most common Japanese equivalents for each meaning, with a focus on natural usage.
Referring to stone as a material, such as in construction or sculpture.
A small piece of stone, often found on the ground or used in games.
The default word for a small stone or rock. Can be used for anything from a pebble to a fist-sized rock.
A precious or semi-precious stone used in jewelry.
The general word for gemstone or jewel. Covers diamonds, rubies, etc.
The imperial unit of weight equal to 14 pounds, used mainly in the UK for body weight.
The hard inner part of a fruit like a peach or cherry.
The general word for seed or pit. Can be used for most fruits.
A hard mass formed in the body.
The medical term for a stone formed in the body, such as kidney stones or gallstones.
While 石 (いし) means stone, it refers to ordinary rocks or the material. For precious stones, always use 宝石 (ほうせき). Using 石 for a diamond would sound like you're calling it a worthless rock.
The stone in this ring is a diamond. (unnatural)
The wall is made of stone.
石材を輸入する
to import stone (building material)
There was a stone on the road.
The child threw a stone.
Specifically a small stone or pebble. Emphasizes the small size.
to pick up a pebble
A colloquial term for a small, often worthless stone. Has a slightly dismissive tone.
a road full of stones
She loves gemstones.
a crown studded with precious stones
A formal term for precious stones, often used in technical or commercial contexts.
appraisal of precious stones
The direct loanword for the British unit. Used in contexts where the imperial system is referenced.
He weighs 12 stone.
In most everyday Japanese contexts, weight is measured in kilograms. It's often better to convert and use キログラム (kg).
My weight is about 76 kilograms. (equivalent to 12 stone)
桃の種
peach stone
More specifically refers to the hard pit or stone of a fruit. Often used in botanical contexts.
cherry stone
この指輪の宝石はダイヤモンドです。
The gemstone in this ring is a diamond. (natural)
石 (いし) is a small stone or rock, while 岩 (いわ) is a large rock or boulder. Use 岩 for something you can't easily pick up.
There is a large rock in the garden.
He threw a stone into the pond.
She wore a necklace with a blue stone.