Translation guide
The English word "ward" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common uses for learners: a hospital room, a political district, a person under guardianship, and the verb meaning to fend off. Each meaning requires different Japanese expressions.
A room or section in a hospital for patients.
The standard term for a hospital ward (a building or section).
He is hospitalized in the surgical ward.
Refers to a patient's room within a ward, not the entire ward.
The ward room is a four-person room.
A division of a city or town for electoral or administrative purposes.
A person, especially a child, who is under the protection of a guardian or court.
To prevent something dangerous or unpleasant from affecting you.
To dodge, parry, or ward off (a blow, attack, question).
He skillfully warded off the question.
To defend against, prevent (danger, illness, etc.).
To repel or beat back (an enemy, attack). Stronger nuance.
The soldiers warded off the enemy attack.
These are completely different words. 'Ward' is about protection or districts; 'word' is 言葉 (ことば).
病棟 (びょうとう) is the entire ward unit or building, while 病室 (びょうしつ) is an individual patient room. Use 病棟 for 'ward' in most hospital contexts.
彼はその選挙区から立候補した。
He ran for office from that ward.
Vitamin C helps ward off colds.