Translation guide
The primary Japanese word for chopsticks is 箸 (はし). This entry covers how to refer to chopsticks, related actions, and common expressions.
Referring to the eating utensil itself.
Describing how to use chopsticks or common actions involving them.
To use chopsticks. The basic verb for handling chopsticks.
彼は箸を使うのが上手だ。
He is good at using chopsticks.
Referring to the small object on which chopsticks are placed to keep them off the table.
English sometimes uses 'chopsticks' as a verb (e.g., 'He chopsticked the sushi'). Japanese does not have a direct verb form. Use 箸で取る (pick up with chopsticks) or 箸でつまむ (pinch with chopsticks) instead.
箸で寿司をつまむ。
Pick up sushi with chopsticks.
Adding お makes the word more polite. It is often used when speaking to customers or in formal situations. In casual conversation, 箸 alone is fine.
この箸は使いやすい。
These chopsticks are easy to use.
Polite form with honorific prefix お. Commonly used in polite conversation or when referring to someone else's chopsticks.
お箸をお持ちしましょうか。
Shall I bring you chopsticks?
Disposable wooden chopsticks that are split apart before use. Common in restaurants.
割り箸を使ってもいいですか。
May I use disposable chopsticks?
Cooking chopsticks, longer than eating chopsticks, used for handling food while cooking.
菜箸で天ぷらを揚げる。
Fry tempura with cooking chopsticks.
To eat with chopsticks. Emphasizes the act of eating using chopsticks.
日本人はたいてい箸で食べる。
Japanese people usually eat with chopsticks.
To put down chopsticks. Often done when pausing or finishing a meal.
食事が終わったら箸を置いてください。
Please put down your chopsticks when you finish eating.
To pick up chopsticks. Used when starting to eat or handing chopsticks to someone.
どうぞ箸をお取りください。
Please pick up your chopsticks.
A chopstick rest. Common in Japanese table settings.
箸置きに箸を置く。
Place the chopsticks on the chopstick rest.