Translation guide
The English word 'chorus' has several distinct meanings: the repeated part of a song, a group of singers, a simultaneous utterance by many people, and a part in a play spoken by a group. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each context.
The part of a song that is repeated after each verse, often the most memorable part.
The most common term for the catchy, climactic part of a pop song. Often used in casual conversation about music.
この曲のサビが頭から離れない。
I can't get the chorus of this song out of my head.
A loanword from English, used for the chorus of a song, but can also refer to a chorus group or backing vocals. Slightly more formal than サビ.
A more technical or literary term for a refrain, often used in classical music or poetry contexts.
An organized group of people who sing together, such as in a choir or musical production.
The standard term for a choir or chorus group, especially in classical or formal settings.
彼女は地元の合唱団に入っている。
She belongs to the local chorus.
Used for a chorus group in a specific performance, like a musical or opera. 隊 implies a troupe or team.
ミュージカルのコーラス隊が素晴らしかった。
The chorus of the musical was wonderful.
Similar to 合唱団 but often implies a smaller or more specific group, like a school chorus.
When many people say the same thing at the same time, often in response to something.
Literally 'in unison,' used when people speak or shout together. Often used with verbs like 言う or 叫ぶ.
生徒たちは声をそろえて「おはようございます」と言った。
The students said 'Good morning' in chorus.
Similar to 声をそろえて, but emphasizes that everyone is saying the same thing, often used for opinions or complaints.
彼らは口をそろえて反対した。
They objected in chorus.
A formal term for singing or reciting in unison, often used in school or ceremonial contexts.
In ancient Greek drama or similar theatrical contexts, a group of performers who comment on the action.
The specific term for the chorus in Greek tragedy, directly borrowed from Greek.
ギリシャ悲劇ではコロスが重要な役割を果たす。
In Greek tragedy, the chorus plays an important role.
Can be used for a theatrical chorus in a broader sense, but less specific than コロス.
劇の合唱隊が舞台の端に立っていた。
The chorus of the play stood at the edge of the stage.
The English phrase 'in chorus' meaning 'all together' should not be translated as コーラスで. Instead, use phrases like 声をそろえて or 口をそろえて.
みんなが声をそろえて賛成した。
Everyone agreed in chorus.
サビ is the most natural and common term for the catchy chorus of a pop song. コーラス can also mean the chorus part but is more often used for backing vocals or a choir. In music production, サビ is the hook, while コーラス may refer to the vocal arrangement.
コーラスの部分を一緒に歌いましょう。
Let's sing the chorus part together.
この詩のリフレインが印象的だ。
The refrain of this poem is striking.
I sing in the school chorus.
国歌を斉唱した。
We sang the national anthem in chorus.