noun
signboard; sign; billboard; doorplate
Physical sign or board displaying a shop name, advertisement, or information. Storefront signs, billboards, and nameplates are also used.
駅前に大きな看板が立っている。
There is a big signboard standing in front of the station.
新しい看板を店の入り口に掛けた。
We hung a new sign at the entrance of the shop.
noun
draw; attraction; highlight; figurehead
Figurative use: something or someone that attracts customers or attention, like a star item or a public face of a business. Often used in phrases like 看板メニュー (signature dish) or 看板娘 (poster girl).
このラーメン屋の看板メニューは味噌ラーメンだ。
The signature dish of this ramen shop is miso ramen.
彼は会社の看板としてテレビによく出ている。
He often appears on TV as the public face of the company.
noun
The good name or standing of a business, often tied to its public image. Used in expressions like 看板に傷がつく (to damage one's reputation).
あの店は看板に傷がつくようなことはしない。
That shop won't do anything that would damage its reputation.
noun
Outward appearance or superficial display, sometimes with a nuance of putting on a show. Can be used in phrases like 看板倒れ (all show and no substance).
彼の親切は看板だけで、本当は冷たい人だ。
His kindness is just for show; he's actually a cold person.
noun
closing time; closing (for the day)
Refers to the end of business hours, especially for restaurants or bars. Often used in the phrase 看板にする (to close up for the day).
そろそろ看板だから、お会計をお願いします。
It's almost closing time, so could we have the bill, please?