Translation guide
A stone used for sharpening blades. In Japanese, the most common word is 砥石 (といし). There are also specific terms for natural vs. synthetic stones, and for coarse vs. fine sharpening.
A stone used to sharpen knives, tools, or blades.
The standard, everyday word for a whetstone. Covers both natural and synthetic stones.
Sharpen a kitchen knife on a whetstone.
This whetstone has a different grit.
Literally 'sharpening stone'. Slightly less common than 砥石 but still widely understood.
My grandfather's whetstone is already worn down.
A whetstone made from natural rock, often prized for fine sharpening.
Distinguishing between rough sharpening and fine honing stones.
Coarse whetstone for initial sharpening or repairing nicks. Often used first in a progression.
First, shape the blade with a coarse whetstone.
Medium-grit whetstone, used between coarse and fine stones.
Fine finishing whetstone for polishing and refining the edge.
Man-made sharpening stone, often aluminum oxide or silicon carbide.
Many Japanese whetstones require soaking in water before use (水に浸ける). Some modern stones are 'splash-and-go' and only need surface water. Always check the manufacturer's instructions.
砥石 (whetstone) is for sharpening by hand. A rotary grindstone (グラインダー砥石) is a different tool. Using 砥石 for a power tool stone can cause confusion.
Polish the blade surface with a natural finishing whetstone.
After sharpening with a medium whetstone, use a finishing stone.
Finish the blade to a mirror polish with a fine whetstone.