Translation guide
The English word 'web' can refer to a spider's web, the World Wide Web, or a complex network. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression based on context.
Referring to a physical web spun by a spider.
The most common and natural way to say 'spider web'. Literally 'spider's nest'.
There was a big spider web in the garden.
Same as クモの巣 but using the kanji for spider. Slightly more formal or literary feel.
Less common; emphasizes the net-like structure. Used in scientific or descriptive contexts.
Spider webs are very intricate.
Referring to the internet or a specific website.
Referring to a metaphorical web, such as a web of lies, a social network, or a transportation network.
Means 'net' or 'network'. Used in compounds like 鉄道網 (railway network) or 情報網 (information network).
He got caught in a web of lies.
Loanword for 'network'. Used for social networks, computer networks, etc.
Literally 'spider-web-shaped'. Used to describe something that physically resembles a web, like cracks or a network pattern.
A web of cracks.
All three can mean 'internet', but ウェブ specifically refers to the World Wide Web. インターネット is the broader internet. ネット is a casual abbreviation of インターネット. In everyday speech, they are often used interchangeably.
The loanword ウェブ is only used for the internet. For a spider's web, always use クモの巣 or 蜘蛛の巣.
I found the information on the web.
A spider was sitting in its web.
The city has an extensive web of subway lines.
蜘蛛の巣が顔に当たった。
A spider web hit my face.
Often used interchangeably with 'web' in casual speech, though technically broader. Very common.
I shopped on the web.
I watch videos on the web.
Expand one's web of contacts.