Translation guide
The English phrase "one piece" can refer to a single item, a one-piece garment (like a dress or swimsuit), or a complete set. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each meaning.
Referring to one individual object, part, or unit.
The most common way to say 'one piece' when counting items. Use with the appropriate counter if the item has a specific shape or type.
ケーキを一つください。
One piece of cake, please.
パズルのピースが一つ足りない。
One piece of the puzzle is missing.
Used for small, often round or compact objects. More specific than 一つ.
りんごを一個食べた。
I ate one piece of apple. (or one apple)
Used for flat objects like paper, slices, or clothing items.
紙を一枚ください。
One piece of paper, please.
ピザを一枚注文した。
I ordered one piece of pizza. (or one whole pizza)
Referring to a single-piece article of clothing, such as a dress or a one-piece swimsuit.
A loanword from English, commonly used for a one-piece dress. Can also refer to a one-piece swimsuit in context.
今日は新しいワンピースを着ている。
I'm wearing a new one-piece dress today.
夏用のワンピースを買った。
I bought a summer one-piece.
Specifically a one-piece swimsuit. 水着 means swimsuit.
プールではワンピース水着を着用してください。
Please wear a one-piece swimsuit at the pool.
Casual abbreviation of ワンピース, used in informal conversation.
そのワンピ、かわいいね。
That one-piece is cute.
Referring to something that is a single, complete unit, not divided into parts.
Used for something that is made as one piece, like a sculpture or a molded object.
この像は一体の石から彫られている。
This statue is carved from one piece of stone.
Loanword meaning 'one set', used for a complete collection of items.
この工具はワンセットで販売されています。
These tools are sold as one piece (one set).
The English phrase 'one piece' is not directly translated as a single Japanese word in most contexts. Use counters or specific terms depending on what you are counting.
Japanese uses counters (助数詞) for different types of objects. 一つ is the generic counter, but using the specific counter (e.g., 枚 for flat objects, 個 for small objects) sounds more natural.