単行本
Meanings
standalone book; single-volume publication
Refers to a book published as an independent volume, not part of a series or anthology. Used for novels, non-fiction, and other standalone works.
I bought this novel as a standalone hardcover, not as a paperback.
tankōbon; individual manga volume
In manga publishing, a tankōbon is a collected volume of chapters previously serialized in a magazine. This is the most common everyday use of the word.
The latest tankōbon volume will be released next week.
This manga has been published in 12 tankōbon volumes.
Usage patterns
- 〈物〉を単行本化するto compile (serialized chapters) into a standalone volume
The popular serial was finally compiled into a tankōbon.
- 単行本になるto be published as a standalone volume
The novel is scheduled to be published as a standalone book next month.
- 単行本を出すto release a standalone book
The author released a new standalone book after a long absence.
- 単行本を買うto buy a (manga) volume
I buy the latest volume of my favorite manga every month.