Translation guide
The English word 'tree' refers to a large plant with a trunk, branches, and leaves. In Japanese, the most common word is 木 (き), but there are also words for specific types of trees, trees in different contexts, and related expressions.
Referring to a tree as a plant, in general or unspecified.
The most common and general word for 'tree'. Can also mean 'wood' depending on context.
There is a big tree in the garden.
What kind of tree is this?
A more formal or technical term for 'tree', often used in written or academic contexts.
Referring to a particular species of tree, such as pine, cherry, etc.
Pine tree. Often used in traditional contexts.
Referring to the substance wood, often from trees.
Can mean both 'tree' and 'wood'. Context usually clarifies.
Referring to a branching diagram, like a family tree or decision tree.
Loanword from English, used for diagrams, data structures, and Christmas trees.
Common phrases or proverbs that use the concept of a tree.
Proverb meaning 'can't see the forest for the trees', i.e., too focused on details to see the big picture.
Both are pronounced き, but 木 means tree/wood, while 気 means spirit, mood, or energy. Context usually makes it clear, but be careful in writing.
Protection of trees is important.
松の木が海岸に並んでいます。
Pine trees line the coast.
Cherry tree, especially famous for its blossoms.
The cherry trees in the park are in full bloom.
Cedar tree, common in Japan and often associated with pollen allergies.
Cedar trees cause hay fever.
Oak tree, often used for its hard wood.
Oak trees are used for furniture.
この机は木でできています。
This desk is made of wood.
Specifically 'lumber' or 'timber', used in construction and carpentry.
I bought lumber to build a house.
A family tree is also called a family tree.
Technical term for 'tree structure' in computer science or mathematics.
The data is represented in a tree structure.
You're so caught up in the details that you can't see the forest for the trees.
Proverb meaning 'even monkeys fall from trees', i.e., everyone makes mistakes.
Even he makes mistakes; it's like 'even monkeys fall from trees'.