Translation guide
The English word 'umbrella' refers to a portable device used for protection against rain or sun. In Japanese, the most common word is 傘 (かさ), but there are specific terms for different types, as well as related expressions and cultural notes.
A portable folding canopy used to protect against rain.
The general term for umbrella, most commonly referring to a rain umbrella. Can be used for both folding and non-folding types.
雨が降りそうだから傘を持って行ったほうがいいよ。
It looks like rain, so you should take an umbrella.
I forgot my umbrella.
Specifically a rain umbrella, as opposed to a sun umbrella. Used when distinction is needed.
I accidentally brought a rain umbrella instead of a parasol.
A folding umbrella, compact and portable. Commonly carried in bags.
I always keep a folding umbrella in my bag.
A cheap, transparent plastic umbrella often sold at convenience stores. Very common in Japan.
It was sudden rain, so I bought a plastic umbrella at the convenience store.
A light umbrella used to block sunlight.
A parasol or sun umbrella, used to block sunlight. Often made with UV-blocking fabric.
In summer, it's unbearably hot unless I use a parasol.
A parasol is effective for UV protection.
Loanword from English 'parasol', often used for larger beach or garden umbrellas.
Two people sharing one umbrella, often with romantic connotations.
Literally 'love-love umbrella', refers to a couple sharing an umbrella. Also used for the doodle of an umbrella with two names written underneath.
The two of them going home under one umbrella is heartwarming.
Using 'umbrella' to mean a protective or encompassing entity.
A word or phrase that covers a broad category.
Means 'generic term' or 'umbrella term'. Used when a word encompasses several subcategories.
'Furniture' is an umbrella term for tables, chairs, etc.
Literally 'comprehensive term', another way to express 'umbrella term'.
'Sports' is an umbrella term.
傘 (かさ) is the general word for umbrella and usually implies a rain umbrella unless context suggests otherwise. 雨傘 (あまがさ) explicitly means rain umbrella, while 日傘 (ひがさ) means parasol or sun umbrella. Use 傘 in most everyday situations.
I brought a parasol today.
It's raining, so let's use an umbrella.
In Japan, it's common to use an umbrella stand (傘立て) at the entrance of buildings. Many places provide plastic bags for wet umbrellas. It's considered polite to shake off rain before entering, and to not swing your umbrella around in crowded areas.
Don't forget your umbrella.
I need to buy a new umbrella.
Can I borrow your umbrella?
ビーチに大きなパラソルを立てた。
We set up a large parasol on the beach.
その国はアメリカの核の傘に守られている。
That country is protected by the US nuclear umbrella.