Translation guide
The English word 'sandpaper' refers to abrasive paper used for smoothing surfaces. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 紙やすり (かみやすり), but other terms exist depending on context.
The physical material used for sanding wood, metal, etc.
The standard term for sandpaper. Literally 'paper file'. Used in everyday contexts and DIY.
紙やすりで表面を滑らかにしてください。
Please smooth the surface with sandpaper.
Loanword from English. Common in hardware stores and technical contexts.
サンドペーパーを買ってきて。
Go buy some sandpaper.
Technical term meaning 'abrasive paper'. Used in industrial or specialized settings.
この研磨紙は金属用です。
This abrasive paper is for metal.
The action of using sandpaper to smooth something.
The most natural way to say 'to sand' using sandpaper. Literally 'to apply sandpaper'.
この板に紙やすりをかけてください。
Please sand this board.
Alternative using the loanword. Slightly less common but still natural.
サンドペーパーをかけてから塗装します。
I'll sand it before painting.
Formal verb meaning 'to polish' or 'to grind'. Used in technical contexts, not limited to sandpaper.
表面を研磨してください。
Please polish the surface.