Translation guide
The English word "stripe" refers to a long, narrow band or line, often of a different color or texture. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 縞 (shima), but the translation depends on the context: pattern, decoration, rank, or a literal line.
Describing a striped pattern on fabric, animals, or surfaces.
General term for stripes as a pattern. Often used in compounds like 縞模様 (striped pattern).
He is wearing a striped shirt.
That cat has gray and white stripes.
Loanword from English, commonly used in fashion and design contexts.
Refers to lines or streaks, often thin and linear. Can be used for stripes on surfaces or in patterns.
Referring to stripes on a uniform indicating rank, especially in military or police contexts.
General term for rank insignia, often in the form of stripes on sleeves or shoulders.
A long, narrow mark or band, not necessarily part of a pattern.
General word for line; can be used for a single stripe or streak.
The action of making stripes on something.
Literally 'to attach a striped pattern', used when adding stripes to a surface.
縞 (shima) is the native Japanese word and is used broadly for stripes in nature, traditional patterns, and everyday items. ストライプ (sutoraipu) is a loanword often used in fashion and modern design. Both are common, but 縞 is more versatile.
There is no single verb 'to stripe' in Japanese. Instead, use phrases like 縞模様をつける or 筋を入れる depending on the context.
This striped tie is nice, isn't it?
There are thin stripes on the wall.
There were three stripes on the sleeve of his uniform.
Specifically sleeve stripes or chevrons indicating rank.
Sergeants can be identified by their sleeve stripes.
道路に白い線が引いてある。
A white stripe is painted on the road.
Counter or suffix for long, thin things; can imply a stripe in some contexts, but is more literary or technical.
A stripe of light shone in.
I striped the wall.
To put in lines or streaks, often used for thin stripes.
Please add stripes to the design.