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.
Please look up the meaning of this word.
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.
Referring to what someone says, e.g., 'I listened to her words' or 'His words were kind.'
Referring to giving one's word as a pledge, e.g., 'I give you my word' or 'He kept his 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.
Referring to the choice of words, e.g., 'I couldn't find the right words' or 'In other words...'
Referring to a piece of news, e.g., 'Have you heard any word from him?' or 'Send word when you arrive.'
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.
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).
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.
I know 1000 Japanese words.
What does this word mean?
I memorize 10 new words every day.
彼の言葉に感動しました。
I was moved by his words.
The most natural way to refer to spoken words or remarks. Can be singular or plural depending on context.
I believe her words.
Those words stayed in my heart.
Refers to a statement or remark, often in a formal or public context. More like 'utterance' or 'comment'.
His remark became a problem.
The standard word for 'promise'. Use this when 'word' means a pledge.
He kept his word.
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).
He is a man of his word.
Can I have a word with you?
Literally 'one word', used to mean a brief comment or a quick word.
Let me say a word. / Let me say something.
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).
I can't find the right words.
Means 'in other words' or 'to put it differently'.
In other words, it's impossible.
Means 'contact' or 'message'. Used when 'word' means communication or news.
Have you had any word from him?
Send word when you arrive.
Means 'news' or 'notice'. Slightly more formal or written.
I'm waiting for good word.
Give the word.
Literally 'if you say so', used in phrases like 'just say the word'.
Just say the word and I'll help.
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.
He forgot his 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.
I give you my word.
Can I have a word with you?
In other words, it's a disaster.