Translation guide
The English word 'tab' has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common ones for learners: a small flap or projecting piece (like on a can or folder), a bill or check (especially in a bar/restaurant), a browser tab, and the tab key on a keyboard. Each meaning uses different Japanese words.
A small piece of material that sticks out, used for pulling, opening, or identifying something (e.g., pull-tab on a can, folder tab, clothing tag).
The loanword from English, widely understood for pull-tabs on cans, plastic packaging, and similar small flaps. Often used in product instructions.
Please pull the tab on the can to open it.
Refers to a small knob, tab, or grip used for pulling or pinching. Common for zipper pulls, small handles, or tabs on packaging.
Please hold the tab of this bag and open it.
Literally 'pull-handle', used for a tab or handle designed for pulling, such as on a drawer or sliding door. More specific than つまみ.
The tab on the drawer broke.
Means 'heading' or 'index tab', used for labeled tabs on folders, dividers, or index cards. Often in office contexts.
Please write the date on the tab of the file.
The total amount owed for food or drinks, especially in a bar or casual restaurant.
Polite and common way to ask for the bill. Used in restaurants, bars, and cafes. Can be shortened to 会計 in casual settings.
Excuse me, can I have the bill, please?
A slightly more casual or traditional term for the bill, often used in izakayas or older establishments. Can be used with お〜 for politeness.
Refers to a running tab or credit account at a bar. 'Put it on my tab' is ツケにしておいて. Not used for a single bill.
A tab in a web browser or software interface that allows switching between multiple open pages or documents.
The standard loanword for browser tabs. Universally understood in tech contexts.
Open the link in a new tab.
The Tab key on a keyboard, used for indentation or moving between fields.
The standard term for the Tab key. Often just called タブ in context.
Press the Tab key to move to the next field.
The loanword タブ can mean a pull-tab, a browser tab, or the Tab key. Context usually makes it clear, but if ambiguity arises, use more specific terms like 缶のタブ (can tab) or ブラウザのタブ (browser tab).
Both mean 'bill' at a restaurant. お会計 is more polite and common in modern settings. 勘定 is slightly more traditional and can sound rough if used without お. In casual izakayas, 勘定 is fine.
Check, please. (polite)
Give me the bill. (casual)
勘定はいくらですか？
How much is the bill?
Put it on my tab for today.