Translation guide
The English word "format" covers several distinct ideas: the physical shape/size of something, the way information is arranged or structured, and the process of preparing something (especially digital media) for use. This guide organizes Japanese expressions by these core meanings.
Describing the physical dimensions, shape, or layout of something like a book, paper, or event.
Used for the size of books, paper, or printed materials. Often combined with a size descriptor.
この本はA5判です。
This book is A5 format.
Refers to the form, style, or format of something, including events or ceremonies. Broader than 判.
会議の形式は対面です。
The format of the meeting is in-person.
Refers to the outward appearance, form, or format, often with a nuance of presentability or style.
レポートの体裁を整える。
To adjust the format of the report.
Talking about file formats, data structures, or the way information is organized digitally or in documents.
The most common loanword for digital file formats (e.g., PDF, JPEG) and data structures. Also used as a verb (フォーマットする) for formatting disks.
このファイルのフォーマットは何ですか？
What is the format of this file?
USBメモリをフォーマットする。
To format a USB drive.
Used for data formats, especially in technical contexts. Slightly more formal than フォーマット.
Refers to the format or style of a document, such as margins, fonts, and layout. Common in word processing.
The action of formatting a disk, drive, or memory card.
The standard verb for formatting digital storage media.
ハードディスクをフォーマットする必要があります。
You need to format the hard disk.
Means 'to initialize' and is often used interchangeably with フォーマットする, especially in technical contexts.
SDカードを初期化する。
To format an SD card.
Describing the format of a TV program, event, or publication layout.
Used for the format or style of events, shows, and publications.
この番組の形式はトークショーです。
The format of this program is a talk show.
Also used for media formats, especially when referring to a standardized structure.
フォーマット is the most common for digital file formats and disk formatting. 形式 is broader and can refer to any form or style, including data formats, event styles, and physical shapes. 書式 specifically refers to document formatting (margins, fonts, etc.) and is common in office software.
ファイル形式を選んでください。
Please select the file format.
書式をクリアする。
To clear the formatting.
When talking about the physical size of a book or paper, use 判 (はん) or サイズ, not フォーマット. フォーマット is primarily for digital or structural formats.
データはCSV形式で保存してください。
Please save the data in CSV format.
Please standardize the format.
This program format is popular overseas as well.