Translation guide
How to refer to a printed edition of a book, newspaper, or other publication in Japanese, distinguishing it from digital or other formats.
The learner wants to refer to a printed version of a publication, as opposed to a digital or online version.
The most direct and common way to say 'printed edition'. Used for books, magazines, and other publications.
The learner wants to refer specifically to the physical newspaper, as opposed to the online version.
The standard way to say 'printed edition of a newspaper'.
新聞の印刷版は朝早く配達されます。
The printed edition of the newspaper is delivered early in the morning.
印刷版 (insatsu-ban) is the most general term for 'printed edition'. 紙版 (kami-ban) emphasizes the material (paper) and is often used in contrast with digital. 冊子版 (sasshi-ban) implies a bound booklet and is common for reports or catalogs. For newspapers, 新聞の印刷版 or simply 紙の新聞 are natural.
電子版より印刷版の方が読みやすいという人もいます。
Some people say the printed edition is easier to read than the digital edition.
Although プリント (purinto) means 'print', プリント版 is not a natural term for 'printed edition'. It might be understood but sounds like a direct translation. Stick to 印刷版 or 紙版.
この本の印刷版は来月発売されます。
The printed edition of this book will be released next month.
Literally 'paper edition'. Often used in contrast with digital editions (電子版). Common in publishing contexts.
紙版と電子版の両方を購入できます。
You can purchase both the paper edition and the digital edition.
Refers to a bound, physical booklet or volume. Often used for reports, catalogs, or magazines.
冊子版のカタログをご希望の方はご連絡ください。
If you would like a printed catalog, please contact us.
Specifically refers to a letterpress or typographic edition. Used in historical or technical contexts about printing methods.
この作品の活字版は非常に貴重です。
The letterpress edition of this work is extremely valuable.
Literally 'paper newspaper'. A casual way to refer to the physical newspaper.
最近は紙の新聞を読む人が減っています。
Recently, fewer people are reading the printed newspaper.
Saying 'purinto-ban' sounds unnatural.
Saying 'purinto-ban' sounds unnatural.