Translation guide
A musical instrument that produces sound through vibrating strings. In Japanese, the most common general term is 弦楽器 (げんがっき). However, specific traditional Japanese instruments like 琴 (こと) and 三味線 (しゃみせん) are often referred to by their individual names rather than the generic category.
Referring to stringed instruments as a class, such as in music discussions, instrument shops, or educational contexts.
The standard, neutral term for any stringed instrument. Used in formal and everyday contexts.
He plays stringed instruments.
The tone of stringed instruments is beautiful.
Loanword from English, often used in musical contexts like orchestras or bands. Can refer to the string section.
The strings in this song are beautiful, aren't they?
When the context is specifically about Japanese culture, music, or traditional arts, the generic term may be less common than the specific instrument names.
In Japanese, it's more natural to name the specific instrument (e.g., 琴, 三味線, 琵琶) rather than saying 'stringed instrument' when the type is known. This is especially true in cultural contexts.
The koto is a traditional Japanese stringed instrument.
I'm learning the shamisen.
Talking about the string section of an orchestra or band.
If you are talking about a particular instrument like a violin, guitar, or koto, always use its specific name (バイオリン, ギター, 琴) instead of the generic 'stringed instrument'. The generic term is mainly for categorization or when the exact instrument is unknown.