Translation guide
Describes something that is egg-shaped, elliptical, or rounded like an oval. Japanese uses several words depending on context, from everyday objects to technical geometry.
Describing everyday objects, faces, or forms that are oval or egg-shaped.
Literally 'egg shape'. Common for describing oval faces, objects, or outlines. Neutral and widely understood.
彼女は卵形の顔をしている。
She has an oval face.
このテーブルは卵形です。
This table is oval-shaped.
Means 'elliptical shape'. Slightly more formal or technical than 卵形, but still common for describing ovals in design or geometry.
楕円形の鏡を買った。
I bought an oval mirror.
Refers to the shape of a traditional gold coin (koban), a rounded rectangle or oval. Used for specific objects like certain mirrors or plates.
小判形のお盆を使う。
Use an oval tray (shaped like a koban).
In mathematics, geometry, or technical contexts where precise elliptical shape is meant.
The standard mathematical term for 'ellipse'. Used in geometry, astronomy, and technical descriptions.
楕円の焦点を求める。
Find the foci of the ellipse.
Literally 'long circle', sometimes used for an elongated oval or ellipse, but less common than 楕円.
Describing a face shape that is considered ideally oval in beauty standards.
Means 'egg-shaped facial contour'. Common in beauty and fashion contexts.
卵型の輪郭が美人の条件と言われる。
An oval face shape is said to be a condition of beauty.
Means 'long face' or 'oval face' when referring to a face that is longer than wide. Can be neutral or slightly negative depending on context.
彼は面長な顔立ちだ。
He has an oval/long face.
卵形 (tamagogata) is more everyday and literally 'egg-shaped', implying a slightly asymmetrical oval like an egg. 楕円形 (daenkei) is more precise and symmetrical, closer to 'elliptical'. For most daily descriptions, 卵形 is fine; for technical or design contexts, 楕円形 may be better.
Many shape words end in 形 (がた or けい). がた is used in native Japanese compounds (卵形), while けい is used in Sino-Japanese compounds (楕円形). Both mean 'shape'.
This figure is an oval (elongated circle).