Translation guide
The English word "prop" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common ones for learners: a support object, a theatrical/item used in performance, and figurative support. It also notes the verb meaning "to lean or support" and the informal shortening of "property" or "propeller."
A stick, pole, or object that holds something up or keeps it open.
General word for a prop, support, or strut. Used for physical supports like poles or stakes.
若い木に支柱を立てた。
I put a prop against the young tree.
A prop or brace, often a pole used to hold something up or keep a door/window open. Casual.
窓につっかえ棒をしておいて。
Prop the window open with a stick.
A support or prop, often used for both physical and emotional support.
その棚には支えが必要だ。
That shelf needs a prop.
An item handled by actors on stage or screen.
Standard term for stage or film props.
彼は小道具係として働いている。
He works as a props master.
Loanword from English, used in film/theater contexts. Common among younger people or in media.
A person or thing that gives emotional, financial, or structural support.
Used for emotional or psychological support, like a person who is your rock.
彼女は私の心の支えです。
She is my emotional prop.
Someone or something you rely on; a support.
The action of propping something up or leaning it.
To lean something against a wall or surface.
はしごを壁に立てかけた。
I propped the ladder against the wall.
To lean something against something else, often with a sense of resting it.
Referring to property, especially in real estate or as a possession.
Common word for a property (real estate). Not a direct abbreviation, but the equivalent concept.
いい物件を見つけた。
I found a nice prop (property).
Aircraft or boat propeller.
Standard loanword for propeller.
飛行機のプロペラが回り始めた。
The plane's prop started spinning.
English 'prop' can be a noun or verb. In Japanese, different words are used for physical support, theatrical items, and figurative support. Using 小道具 for a physical support would be wrong.
このシーンではプロップが必要です。
We need a prop for this scene.
He is the prop of the family.
He propped his bike against the fence.