Translation guide
In Japanese, 'printing type' can refer to the physical pieces of type used in letterpress printing, the style or design of typefaces, or the category of typefaces. The most common term is 活字 (katsuji), which historically means movable type but is also used for typefaces in general. For digital or design contexts, フォント (font) is widely used.
The individual pieces of metal or wood with raised characters used in traditional letterpress printing.
The standard term for movable type used in printing. It can also refer to printed characters or typefaces in general.
この本は活字で印刷された。
This book was printed with movable type.
活字を拾う作業は大変だ。
The work of picking out type is tough.
Explicitly 'printing type' as movable type for printing, used when distinction from other 'type' is needed.
印刷用活字の歴史を学ぶ。
Learn the history of printing type.
The design or style of letters and characters used in printing or on screens.
Refers to a typeface design or calligraphic style. Common in typography and design contexts.
この書体は読みやすい。
This typeface is easy to read.
明朝体という書体を使う。
Use a typeface called Mincho.
Loanword from English, widely used for digital fonts. In casual or tech contexts, it's the most common term.
このフォントをダウンロードした。
I downloaded this font.
Specifically a typeface designed for printing with movable type, or a typeface based on such designs. Technical term.
活字書体のデザインを研究する。
Research the design of printing types.
A broad category or family of typefaces, such as Mincho (serif) or Gothic (sans-serif).
Also used for categories like 明朝体 (Mincho) or ゴシック体 (Gothic).
明朝体とゴシック体の違いは何ですか。
What is the difference between Mincho and Gothic typefaces?
Often refers to character shape or style, but can be used for typeface categories in some contexts. Less precise than 書体.
活字 (katsuji) originally means movable type, but is often used for typefaces in general, especially in printing contexts. 書体 (shotai) is the standard term for typeface design or calligraphic style. フォント (font) is a loanword used mainly for digital fonts. In modern design talk, フォント is very common, while 書体 sounds more formal or traditional.
このフォントは明朝体の書体です。
This font is a Mincho typeface.
The English word 'type' can mean 'kind' or 'sort'. In Japanese, that is 種類 (shurui) or タイプ (taipu). 'Printing type' specifically refers to typography, so use the terms above.
どんな種類の本が好きですか。
What type of books do you like?
活字がすり減っていた。
The printing type was worn out.
この書体が好きです。
I like this printing type.
フォントサイズを変更する。
Change the font size.
This type style feels old.