Translation guide
The English word "word" covers several distinct concepts in Japanese. The most common equivalent is 言葉 (kotoba), which refers to language, words, or expressions. For a single lexical unit, 単語 (tango) is used. Other nuances include wording, a promise, or a brief conversation.
Referring to a word as a lexical item, e.g., 'What does this word mean?' or 'I learned a new word.'
The standard term for a word as a vocabulary item. Used in dictionaries, language learning, and counting words.
この単語の意味を調べてください。
Please look up the meaning of this word.
毎日10個の新しい単語を覚えています。
I memorize 10 new words every day.
Can also mean 'word' in a general sense, but is broader (language, expression). Often used when talking about words as carriers of meaning or emotion.
彼の言葉に感動しました。
I was moved by his words.
Referring to what someone says, e.g., 'I listened to her words' or 'His words were kind.'
The most natural way to refer to spoken words or remarks. Can be singular or plural depending on context.
彼女の言葉を信じます。
I believe her words.
その言葉は心に残りました。
Those words stayed in my heart.
Refers to a statement or remark, often in a formal or public context. More like 'utterance' or 'comment'.
Referring to giving one's word as a pledge, e.g., 'I give you my word' or 'He kept his word.'
The standard word for 'promise'. Use this when 'word' means a pledge.
彼は約束を守った。
He kept his word.
約束を破らないでください。
Please don't break your word.
Can also mean 'word' as in promise, especially in set phrases like 言葉を守る (keep one's word).
Referring to a short talk, e.g., 'Can I have a word with you?' or 'We exchanged a few words.'
Common phrase meaning 'I have something to talk about' or 'Can I have a word?' Used for a brief, often private conversation.
ちょっと話があるんだけど。
Can I have a word with you?
Literally 'one word', used to mean a brief comment or a quick word.
一言言わせてください。
Let me say a word. / Let me say something.
Referring to the choice of words, e.g., 'I couldn't find the right words' or 'In other words...'
Used for 'words' as in expression or phrasing. Often appears in phrases like 言葉が見つからない (can't find the words).
適切な言葉が見つかりません。
I can't find the right words.
Means 'in other words' or 'to put it differently'.
言い換えると、それは不可能だ。
In other words, it's impossible.
Referring to a piece of news, e.g., 'Have you heard any word from him?' or 'Send word when you arrive.'
Means 'contact' or 'message'. Used when 'word' means communication or news.
彼から何か連絡がありましたか？
Have you had any word from him?
着いたら連絡してください。
Send word when you arrive.
Means 'news' or 'notice'. Slightly more formal or written.
Referring to a word as a signal to begin, e.g., 'Just say the word' or 'Give the word.'
Means 'signal' or 'cue'. Used when 'word' means a sign to start something.
合図を出してください。
Give the word.
Literally 'if you say so', used in phrases like 'just say the word'.
言ってくれればすぐに手伝います。
Just say the word and I'll help.
Referring to lyrics or script, e.g., 'I love the words to this song' or 'The words were written by...'
Specifically means 'lyrics' (of a song).
この曲の歌詞が好きです。
I like the words to this song.
Means 'lines' or 'dialogue' in a play, movie, etc.
彼は台詞を忘れた。
He forgot his words.
言葉 is a broad term covering language, speech, and words in general. 単語 specifically refers to individual vocabulary items. Use 単語 when counting words or talking about dictionary entries. Use 言葉 when referring to what someone said or the concept of language.
日本語の単語を1000語知っています。
I know 1000 Japanese words.
言葉は文化を反映する。
Language reflects culture.
English uses 'word' in many idiomatic expressions. Direct translation often fails. For example, 'in other words' is 言い換えると, not 他の言葉で. 'Word for word' is 逐語的に (ちくごてきに) or 一語一語 (いちごいちご). Always consider the intended meaning.
この単語の意味は何ですか？
What does this word mean?
約束します。
I give you my word.
ちょっと話があるんですが。
Can I have a word with you?
言い換えると、それは災害だ。
In other words, it's a disaster.
彼の発言は問題になった。
His remark became a problem.
彼は言葉を守る人だ。
He is a man of his word.
I'm waiting for good word.