Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of 'typeface' is most commonly expressed as 書体 (shotai), which refers to the design of a set of characters. For digital contexts, フォント (font) is widely used, though it technically refers to a specific weight and style within a typeface family. This guide covers how to talk about typefaces in design, printing, and everyday digital use.
Referring to the overall design or style of a set of characters, such as Mincho or Gothic.
The standard term for 'typeface' in design and typography. Covers both print and digital typefaces.
This typeface is easy to read, isn't it?
Mincho and Gothic are representative typefaces.
Commonly used in digital contexts, though technically refers to a specific weight/style within a typeface family. Often used interchangeably with 書体 in casual conversation.
This font can be downloaded for free.
Naming common typeface categories like serif, sans-serif, or script.
The Japanese equivalent of a serif typeface, characterized by small decorative strokes. Widely used in books and newspapers.
Mincho typeface is often used for vertical body text.
The Japanese equivalent of a sans-serif typeface, with uniform stroke width. Common in headlines and digital displays.
Refers to script or cursive typefaces that mimic handwriting.
A rounded sans-serif typeface, often used for a friendly or soft impression.
Discussing variations within a typeface, such as bold or italic.
Bold weight. Often used as a style within a typeface rather than a separate typeface.
Please make the important parts bold.
Italic style. Note that true italics are less common in Japanese typography; oblique fonts are sometimes used.
Loanword for 'weight', used in design contexts to refer to the thickness of strokes (e.g., light, regular, bold).
Talking about selecting, pairing, or evaluating typefaces in design.
書体 (shotai) refers to the design of the characters (typeface), while フォント (font) originally meant a specific size and weight of a typeface. In modern digital usage, フォント is often used casually to mean typeface, but in professional design contexts, 書体 is more precise.
The English word 'typeface' does not have a direct katakana equivalent in common use. Using タイプフェイス would sound unnatural. Stick to 書体 or フォント depending on context.
Gothic typeface is suitable for headlines.
招待状には筆記体の書体を使いました。
I used a script typeface for the invitation.
Rounded Gothic typeface suits designs for children.
English titles are displayed in italics.
This typeface has multiple weights.
The impression of a design changes with typeface combinations.