Translation guide
The English word 'textile' refers broadly to woven fabrics, cloth, and the industry around them. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 布 (nuno) for everyday cloth, while 織物 (orimono) specifically means woven fabric. For industrial or formal contexts, テキスタイル (tekisutairu) is used.
The learner wants to refer to cloth or fabric in everyday contexts, such as clothing, crafts, or household items.
The most common word for cloth or fabric. Used for material in general, like cotton or linen. Can refer to a piece of cloth or fabric as a material.
この布は柔らかい。
This fabric is soft.
布で袋を作った。
I made a bag out of cloth.
Refers to fabric as a material for making clothes or other items, often used in sewing or tailoring contexts. Implies a specific type of fabric (e.g., cotton, silk).
この生地はドレスにぴったりです。
This fabric is perfect for a dress.
Specifically means woven fabric or textiles. Often used for traditional or decorative woven goods, like kimono fabric or tapestries.
この織物は手織りです。
This textile is handwoven.
The learner wants to talk about textiles in an industrial, commercial, or academic context, such as manufacturing, trade, or design.
A loanword from English, used in fashion, design, and industry. It carries a modern, technical, or artistic nuance, similar to 'textile' in English.
彼女はテキスタイルデザインを勉強している。
She is studying textile design.
A formal term meaning 'textile products' or 'fiber products'. Used in business, trade, and technical contexts.
この会社は繊維製品を輸出している。
This company exports textile products.
Can also refer to textiles in a traditional or craft industry sense, such as local weaving industries.
The learner wants to refer to a piece of cloth used for practical purposes like wiping, wrapping, or covering.
Also used for a cloth or rag. Context makes it clear whether it's fabric material or a piece of cloth.
布でテーブルを拭いてください。
Please wipe the table with a cloth.
A scrap or piece of cloth, often leftover or used for cleaning.
布 is the broadest term for cloth or fabric. 生地 specifically refers to fabric as a material for making something, often used in sewing. 織物 emphasizes the woven nature and is used for traditional or decorative textiles.
布を買いに行く。
I'm going to buy some fabric.
この生地は伸縮性がある。
This fabric is stretchy.
織物の展示会に行った。
I went to a textile exhibition.
テキスタイル is a loanword used mainly in industrial, artistic, or academic contexts. For everyday cloth or fabric, use 布 or 生地.
この地域は織物産業で知られている。
This region is known for its textile industry.
I wiped the window with a piece of cloth.