Translation guide
The English word "style" covers many concepts, from fashion and design to manner of doing things and linguistic register. This guide breaks down the most useful meanings for learners and gives natural Japanese equivalents.
Referring to a distinctive appearance, often in clothing, interior design, or visual arts.
Loanword from English, widely used for fashion, figure, or overall look. Very common in everyday conversation.
She has a good figure / She's stylish.
Specifically refers to fashion or clothing style. Often used in compound words like ファッションスタイル.
Refers to design or style of objects, graphics, etc. Not limited to clothing.
Describing how something is done, a characteristic method or approach.
General term for way of doing something, method, or style. Very common and natural.
Referring to a distinctive genre, technique, or expression in arts.
Referring to formal vs. informal language, or style of speech/writing.
Having a sense of style, being fashionable or elegant.
Adjectival noun meaning stylish, fashionable, or well-dressed. Very common.
Referring to a standardized format for documents, citations, or typography.
Format or style for documents, spreadsheets, etc. Common in IT and business.
While スタイル is versatile, it can sound vague or overly Westernized in some contexts. Use more specific Japanese words like やり方, 作風, or 書式 when appropriate.
His cooking style is unique. (Understandable, but やり方 or 流儀 might sound more natural.)
やり方 is the general, neutral word for 'way of doing'. 流儀 implies a more established, often traditional or personal style, and can carry a nuance of pride or stubbornness.
I like the style of these clothes.
彼のファッションはいつも個性的だ。
His fashion style is always unique.
この椅子のデザインはモダンだ。
The design of this chair is modern.
His style of doing things is unique.
Try it in your own style.
Refers to a traditional or established style, often in arts or personal principles. Slightly formal.
He sticks to his own style.
Also used for manner or approach, especially in creative or professional contexts.
His teaching style is strict.
Specifically refers to an artist's or writer's style. Very natural for literature, painting, etc.
This author's style is realistic.
Commonly used for musical or artistic style, especially in modern contexts.
His musical style is influenced by jazz.
Formal term for style, often used in architecture, art history, or technical descriptions.
This architecture is Gothic style.
Refers to literary or written style, including formal/informal register.
This text has a stiff/formal style.
Way of speaking, including politeness level and manner. More about spoken style.
His speaking style is very polite.
Choice of words, phrasing, or diction. Often implies politeness or style of expression.
Use polite language/style with superiors.
She is always stylish.
Refined, chic, or tasteful, often with a traditional Japanese aesthetic. Not for modern fashion.
His way of wearing a kimono is stylish/chic.
Please standardize the report style/format.
Used in software for style settings (e.g., Word styles).
Change the heading style.
His method is efficient. (Neutral)
His style is old-fashioned. (Slightly critical, implying a set way)