Translation guide
The English word 'contour' refers to the outline or shape of something, often with a focus on curves. In Japanese, there is no single direct equivalent; the best choice depends on whether you mean a physical outline, a curved shape, the contour of a face or body, or a line on a map.
Describing the outer edge or silhouette of a physical object.
The most common and general word for 'contour' or 'outline'. Used for objects, faces, and abstract shapes.
山の輪郭が夕日に浮かび上がった。
The contour of the mountain stood out against the sunset.
彼女の顔の輪郭はとても美しい。
The contour of her face is very beautiful.
Refers to the external shape or form, often used in technical or descriptive contexts.
この建物の外形は非常にユニークだ。
The contour of this building is very unique.
Loanword from English 'silhouette'. Often used for the dark outline of a person or object against a lighter background.
木々のシルエットが美しい。
The contour of the trees is beautiful.
Emphasizing the flowing, curved nature of a contour, such as in design or art.
Means 'curved line'. Used when the contour is specifically a curve, like in a car's design or a graceful line.
この車のボディの曲線が好きだ。
I like the contour of this car's body.
Loanword from English 'line'. Often used in fashion, design, and sports to refer to the contour or silhouette.
Referring to the shape or definition of facial features or body muscles, often in beauty or fitness.
Specifically the contour of the face, especially the jawline. Common in beauty contexts.
フェイスラインを引き締めるマッサージ。
A massage to tighten the facial contour.
Refers to the contour or silhouette of the body, often used in fashion and fitness.
この服はボディラインをきれいに見せる。
These clothes show off your body contour nicely.
Also used for facial contour, but more general. Often combined with 顔 (face).
Referring to lines on a topographic map that connect points of equal elevation.
The standard term for contour lines on a map. Literally 'equal-height lines'.
この地図の等高線は10メートル間隔だ。
The contour lines on this map are at 10-meter intervals.
輪郭 is the most general and can be used for both physical and abstract outlines. 外形 is more technical and emphasizes the external form. シルエット is specifically a dark outline against a light background, like a shadow.
In makeup, 'contouring' is usually expressed with the loanword コントゥアリング or the phrase 輪郭を整える (to shape the contour). The word シェーディング (shading) is also common.
The contour of this dress is beautiful.
顔の輪郭をはっきりさせるメイク。
Makeup that defines the contour of the face.