Translation guide
Japanese has several words for footwear, and the best choice depends on the type and context. The most common general term is 靴 (くつ), which covers shoes and boots. For traditional Japanese footwear, use specific terms like 下駄 (げた) or 草履 (ぞうり). In formal or commercial contexts, 履物 (はきもの) is used.
Referring to footwear in everyday conversation, especially Western-style shoes.
The most common word for shoes and boots. It can refer to a single shoe or footwear in general.
新しい靴を買った。
I bought new shoes.
靴を脱いでください。
Please take off your shoes.
A broader term for footwear, including traditional Japanese styles. Often used in formal or commercial contexts, like shoe stores.
履物売り場はどこですか。
Where is the footwear department?
Referring specifically to traditional Japanese sandals or clogs.
Wooden clogs worn with kimono or yukata. Often associated with the sound 'karankoron'.
浴衣に下駄を履いた。
I wore geta with my yukata.
Flat sandals made of straw, leather, or synthetic materials. Worn with formal kimono or casually.
A type of flat sandal with a leather sole, often worn by men in summer.
Footwear worn inside the house, typically soft slippers.
Loanword from English 'slipper'. Used for indoor slippers, often provided for guests.
スリッパに履き替えてください。
Please change into slippers.
Indoor shoes, especially in schools or some workplaces. Often soft-soled and clean.
Referring to footwear in a business, retail, or formal context.
The standard term for footwear as a product category. Used in stores, catalogs, and formal writing.
当店では様々な履物を取り扱っております。
We carry a variety of footwear at our store.
Loanword from English, used in fashion or marketing contexts. Sounds trendy.
新作フットウェアが入荷しました。
New footwear has arrived.
靴 (くつ) is the everyday word for shoes and boots. 履物 (はきもの) is a broader term that includes all types of footwear, such as sandals, slippers, and traditional Japanese footwear. Use 履物 in formal or commercial settings, or when you want to emphasize the category.
The English word 'footwear' is often used in commercial contexts. In casual Japanese, people usually specify the type (e.g., 靴, サンダル). Using 履物 in casual conversation may sound overly formal or stiff.
入る前に靴を脱いでください。
Please remove your footwear before entering.
Natural Japanese uses 靴 even if the original says 'footwear'.
この店では様々な履物を販売しています。
This store sells a wide range of footwear.
履物 is appropriate in a commercial context.
I wore zori to the shrine.
My grandfather wears setta in summer.
学校では上履きを履きます。
We wear indoor shoes at school.