Translation guide
The concept of symmetry in Japanese can be expressed through nouns, adjectives, and descriptive phrases. The most common and direct translation is 対称 (taishō), but other terms like シンメトリー (shinmetorī) and 左右対称 (sayū taishō) are also used depending on context. This guide covers how to talk about symmetry in design, nature, mathematics, and everyday life.
Describing something as having balanced proportions, where one side mirrors the other, in general contexts like art, design, or nature.
The standard noun meaning 'symmetry'. Can be used in most contexts, from everyday to technical.
This building is perfectly symmetrical.
Loanword from English, often used in design, fashion, and artistic contexts. Sounds slightly more stylish or modern.
A more formal or scientific term for 'symmetry' as a property. Used in mathematics, physics, and technical writing.
Describing something as symmetrical, using adjectives or descriptive phrases.
The most common way to say 'symmetrical' as an adjective. Attaches directly to nouns.
Expressing that something is not symmetrical, or describing asymmetry.
Referring to symmetry in formal disciplines like geometry, physics, or biology.
対称 is the standard, neutral term used in all contexts. シンメトリー is a loanword that feels more modern or stylish, often used in fashion, design, and casual conversation. In formal or technical writing, stick to 対称 or 対称性.
When talking about facial or bodily symmetry, 左右対称 is very common. You can say 左右対称の顔 (symmetrical face) or 左右対称ではない (not symmetrical).
The garden was designed with perfect symmetry.
The symmetry of the butterfly's wings is beautiful.
This design has symmetry.
Literally 'left-right symmetry', emphasizing bilateral symmetry. Common in descriptions of faces, bodies, or objects.
The human body is not perfectly symmetrical.
This crystal has high symmetry.
I like symmetrical patterns.
His face is very symmetrical.
Specifically 'bilaterally symmetrical'. Used for faces, bodies, and objects with left-right mirroring.
A symmetrical face is said to be attractive.
Adjectival form of the loanword, used in casual or trendy contexts.
A symmetrical arrangement is nice, isn't it?
The standard term for 'asymmetry' or 'asymmetrical'. Used in both everyday and technical contexts.
This painting has an asymmetrical beauty.
Specifically 'left-right asymmetry'. Common in medical or biological contexts.
His ears are asymmetrical.
Loanword for 'asymmetry', often used in fashion or design.
Asymmetrical hairstyles are in fashion.
The property of symmetry in scientific contexts. Often used with modifiers like 回転対称性 (rotational symmetry).
Physical laws are based on symmetry.
Line symmetry or reflection symmetry. Used in geometry.
This shape has line symmetry.
Point symmetry or rotational symmetry of order 2.
A parallelogram is a point-symmetric shape.
私は芸術では非対称の構図が好きだ。
I prefer asymmetrical compositions in art.