Translation guide
A small enclosed structure with a public telephone, once common on streets. In modern Japan, public phones are usually open kiosks rather than full booths, and the term is often used in historical or nostalgic contexts.
A small room-like structure with a door, containing a payphone, offering privacy.
The most common term for a traditional telephone booth. 'ボックス' implies a box-like enclosure.
There is still a red telephone booth left on the street corner.
More formal, explicitly 'public telephone box'. Used in official contexts.
A public telephone booth is installed in front of the station.
Literally 'telephone room'. Suggests a slightly larger or more private space, sometimes found indoors.
There is a telephone room in the hotel lobby.
A stand or small shelter with a public phone, often without a full enclosure, common in contemporary Japan.
The classic red telephone box, often seen as a cultural symbol or tourist attraction.
Simply 'red telephone box'. Instantly recognizable as the British icon.
I took a photo in front of a red telephone booth in London.
Specifies the British origin, useful when context is needed.
In Japan, fully enclosed telephone booths are rare today. Most public phones are open kiosks or wall-mounted units. When referring to a current public phone, '公衆電話' is more natural than '電話ボックス'.
If you say '電話ボックス', a Japanese listener might picture an old-fashioned booth. For a simple payphone, use '公衆電話'.
Public phone stands are lined up on the station platform.
British telephone booths have become tourist attractions.