Translation guide
The English word "letter" has two main meanings: a written message and a character of the alphabet. In Japanese, these are completely different words. This guide helps you choose the right one.
A written or printed message sent to someone, usually by mail.
The standard word for a personal or business letter sent by mail. Covers most uses of 'letter' as a message.
A single symbol in an alphabet, such as A, B, C, or あ, い, う.
General term for a character or letter of any writing system. Use this when talking about letters as symbols.
A formal written document, often from an institution, like a cover letter or letter of recommendation.
Formal term for a letter or written document, often used in official or ceremonial contexts.
手紙 (tegami) means a written message you send. 文字 (moji) means a character or letter of the alphabet. Using the wrong one can cause confusion.
In modern Japanese, メール (email) is often used for electronic messages. 手紙 implies a physical letter sent by post. If you say 'I sent a letter' but mean email, use メールを送った.
友達に手紙を書いた。
I wrote a letter to my friend.
手紙が届きました。
The letter arrived.
Polite form of 手紙, often used when referring to someone else's letter or in formal contexts.
お手紙ありがとうございます。
Thank you for your letter.
Formal or literary term for a letter, often used in official or historical contexts.
歴史的な書簡が発見された。
A historical letter was discovered.
この文字は何ですか？
What letter is this?
英語の文字は26個あります。
There are 26 letters in the English alphabet.
Often used interchangeably with 文字, but can also mean handwriting or a character's shape. Slightly more casual.
彼は字がきれいだ。
He has nice handwriting. (lit. His letters are pretty.)
Specifically refers to letters of the Roman alphabet. Use when distinguishing from Japanese characters.
名前をアルファベットで書いてください。
Please write your name in letters (Roman alphabet).
Specifically English letters, often used in contexts like '英字新聞' (English-language newspaper).
英字のフォントを選ぶ。
Choose an English letter font.
推薦状を書いていただけますか？
Could you write a letter of recommendation?