Translation guide
In Japanese, 'tall building' is most commonly expressed as 高層ビル (kōsō biru) for modern high-rises, or 高い建物 (takai tatemono) for any tall structure. The choice depends on context and formality.
I can see a tall building over there.
There are few tall buildings in this town.
Specifically refers to a high-rise or skyscraper. 高層 means 'high-rise' and ビル is short for ビルディング (building). Common in news and formal contexts.
There are many high-rise buildings in Tokyo.
A more technical term for 'high-rise building' or 'high-rise architecture'. Often used in architectural or urban planning contexts.
High-rise construction is regulated in this area.
Emphasizing a very tall, modern building, often with many floors.
Literally 'super high-rise building'. Used for skyscrapers, typically over 100 meters tall. Common in media.
That skyscraper is a symbol of the city.
A literary or poetic term for 'skyscraper', literally 'sky-scraping tower'. Not used in everyday speech.
Referring to a tall building in terms of its height or as a notable structure.
Literally 'tall-statured building'. 背 means 'stature/height'. Slightly more colloquial than 高い建物, often used for buildings that stand out.
A tall building was built in front of the station.
高い建物 is a general term for any tall building, while 高層ビル specifically refers to modern high-rise buildings with many floors. Use 高い建物 for houses, temples, or older structures that are simply tall, and 高層ビル for office towers or apartment complexes.
Is that tall building a temple?
That high-rise is an office building.
ビル (from 'building') almost always implies a modern, multi-story structure, often made of concrete or steel. 建物 is a broader term for any building, including traditional wooden structures. When in doubt, 建物 is safer for general use.
A new high-rise building is under construction.
The scenery of New York with its rows of skyscrapers.