Translation guide
The family of musical instruments played by striking, shaking, or scraping. In Japanese, the general term is 打楽器 (だがっき). For specific contexts like a percussion section or percussionist, other terms are used.
Referring to the category of musical instruments that produce sound by being hit, shaken, or scraped.
The standard term for percussion instruments as a family. Used in formal and everyday contexts.
彼は打楽器を演奏します。
He plays percussion instruments.
打楽器の音が好きです。
I like the sound of percussion instruments.
Loanword from English, commonly used in music contexts, especially in band or orchestra settings. Often implies a set of percussion instruments or the percussion section.
彼はパーカッションを担当しています。
He is in charge of percussion.
Referring to the group of percussionists or the percussion part in a band, orchestra, etc.
Literally 'percussion instrument section'. Clear and formal.
打楽器セクションの練習は明日です。
The percussion section rehearsal is tomorrow.
Common in band contexts. 'Part' refers to the role or sheet music.
パーカッションパートはリズムを支えます。
The percussion part supports the rhythm.
A person who plays percussion instruments.
Formal term for a percussionist. Used in programs, articles.
彼女はプロの打楽器奏者です。
She is a professional percussionist.
Loanword, common in casual conversation among musicians.
いいパーカッショニストを探しています。
I'm looking for a good percussionist.
Referring to the percussive sounds or rhythm track, not necessarily acoustic instruments.
Used for electronic or sampled percussion sounds in pop, rock, etc.
この曲のパーカッションがかっこいい。
The percussion in this song is cool.
Literally 'percussion instrument sound'. More technical.
打楽器音をサンプリングする。
Sample percussion sounds.
打楽器 is the native Japanese term and is more formal. パーカッション is a loanword and feels more modern or casual. In school bands, パーカッション is very common. In classical music programs, 打楽器 is preferred.