Translation guide
The triangular upper part of a wall at the end of a ridged roof. In Japanese architecture, this is often referred to as 破風 (はふ) or 切妻 (きりづま), depending on context.
The triangular wall area between the edges of a sloping roof.
General term for the gable, especially the decorative board covering the gable end. Common in traditional Japanese architecture.
The gable of this house is beautifully carved.
Refers to the gable roof style itself, or the gable end of a building with a simple triangular shape. Often used in architectural descriptions.
切妻屋根は日本でよく見られる。
Gable roofs are commonly seen in Japan.
Literally 'wife', but in architecture, it can mean the gable end of a building. Often used in compound terms like 妻側 (つまがわ, gable side).
この建物の妻側には窓がない。
There are no windows on the gable side of this building.
The ornamental board that covers the gable end, often with carvings or symbols.
Specifically the board that covers the gable. 破風 (はふ) alone can also refer to this.
破風板が傷んでいるので交換が必要だ。
The gable board is damaged and needs to be replaced.
破風 (はふ) emphasizes the gable as a wall or decorative element, while 切妻 (きりづま) refers to the roof style or the triangular shape. In everyday conversation, 破風 is more common for the gable itself.
あの家の破風は三角形だ。
That house's gable is triangular.
切妻屋根の家を建てたい。
I want to build a house with a gable roof.
In casual conversation, Japanese speakers might simply describe the shape (三角形の壁, さんかくけいのかべ, triangular wall) rather than using a specific architectural term. Use 破風 when you want to sound precise.