Translation guide
In Japanese, the word for 'vase' depends on the material, shape, and use. The most common general term is 花瓶, but traditional flower arrangement uses specific terms like 花器 or 花入れ. For tall cylindrical vases, 筒 is used. Be aware that some words have homonyms with different meanings.
A container for displaying cut flowers, typically made of glass, ceramic, or plastic.
The standard, everyday word for a flower vase. Used in homes, shops, and casual conversation.
I arrange flowers in a vase.
That vase breaks easily.
A container specifically used in ikebana, often with a wide mouth, shallow basin, or tall narrow shape.
A formal term for a vessel used in flower arrangement. Emphasizes the artistic or ceremonial aspect.
This flower vase is used in tea ceremony.
Literally 'flower container'. Often used for hanging vases or simple vessels in traditional settings.
Can refer to a vase or the act of arranging flowers. Less common as a noun for the container itself.
A tall, narrow vase, often used for single stems or branches.
Means 'cylinder' or 'tube'. When context is clear, it refers to a tall cylindrical vase. Often used in compounds.
筒 alone can mean pipe or tube. Use context to clarify it's a vase.
I put flowers in a tall vase.
Specifically a cylindrical flower vase. Common in traditional settings.
I arrange a branch in a cylindrical vase.
A vase used as an ornament, often large, made of ceramic or metal, and may not hold water.
花瓶 is read かびん, but かへい (also written 花瓶) is an uncommon reading meaning 'flower vase' in some contexts. 花器 (かき) can also mean 'flower vessel', but かき can also mean 'oyster' (牡蠣) or 'persimmon' (柿). Context usually makes it clear.
竹の花入れに花を生ける。
I arrange flowers in a bamboo vase.
花生けに水を入れる。
I put water in the flower vase.