Translation guide
A carton is a container made of cardboard, paperboard, or plastic, often used for packaging food, drinks, or other goods. In Japanese, the translation depends on the material, shape, and contents.
A box made of cardboard, often used for shipping or storage.
The most common term for a cardboard box. '段ボール' alone can also mean 'carton' in context.
引っ越し用の段ボール箱を買った。
I bought cardboard boxes for moving.
Loanword from English, used for cartons of drinks, eggs, etc. Less common for plain cardboard boxes.
A paper-based container for liquids, typically with a gable top or rectangular shape.
Standard term for paper cartons used for milk, juice, etc. Often used in recycling contexts.
この紙パックはリサイクルできます。
This paper carton can be recycled.
Specifically a milk carton. Used when the contents are milk.
牛乳パックを開けるのが難しい。
It's hard to open the milk carton.
Also used for drink cartons, especially in product names or packaging.
A molded pulp or plastic container for eggs.
Standard term for an egg carton. 'パック' is used for many types of containers.
卵パックを冷蔵庫に戻して。
Put the egg carton back in the fridge.
Less common, but understandable. 'ケース' means case.
卵のケースが空になった。
The egg carton is empty.
A box containing multiple packs of cigarettes.
Used specifically for a carton of cigarettes (usually 10 packs).
タバコをカートンで買うと安い。
It's cheaper to buy cigarettes by the carton.
The word パック (pakku) is a versatile suffix for many types of containers, including cartons, packs, and clamshells. It's often combined with the contents: 卵パック (egg carton), 牛乳パック (milk carton), 豆腐パック (tofu pack).
While カートン is used for drink and cigarette cartons, it's not the default for cardboard boxes. Use 段ボール箱 for general cardboard boxes to avoid confusion.
牛乳のカートンを捨ててください。
Please throw away the milk carton.
オレンジジュースのカートンを冷蔵庫に入れた。
I put the orange juice carton in the fridge.