Translation guide
In Japanese, 'third volume' is typically expressed by combining the number 'three' with the counter for books/volumes, most commonly 三巻 (sankan). The specific phrasing depends on context, such as whether you are referring to the volume number in a series, a physical book, or a part of a set.
三巻
third volume (of a series)
Referring to the third installment in a numbered series of books, manga, or similar publications.
The most common and neutral way to say 'third volume' or 'volume 3'. Used for books, manga, light novels, etc.
このシリーズの三巻はまだ読んでいません。
I haven't read the third volume of this series yet.
The release date for volume 3 is next month.
A more formal or explicit way to say 'the third volume', often used in official descriptions or when emphasizing the order.
第三巻には重要な秘密が明かされる。
An important secret is revealed in the third volume.
Referring to the third physical book in a multi-volume set, such as an encyclopedia or collected works.
Literally 'the third book', using the counter 冊 for bound volumes. Emphasizes the physical item rather than the content order.
全集の三冊目が見つからない。
I can't find the third volume of the complete works.
Similar to 三冊目 but uses the counter 巻, which can also refer to physical volumes, especially for series.
三巻目は特に分厚い。
The third volume is especially thick.
Referring to the third part or section of a narrative, which may not correspond to a physical book.
Means 'Part 3' or 'the third part', used for stories, films, or serialized works that are divided into parts rather than volumes.
物語の第三部は来年公開予定です。
Part three of the story is scheduled to be released next year.
三巻 is the everyday way to say 'volume 3', while 第三巻 is slightly more formal and emphasizes the ordinal number. In casual conversation, 三巻 is preferred.
When counting books as physical objects, use 冊 (さつ). When referring to volumes in a series, use 巻 (かん). For parts of a story, use 部 (ぶ).