Translation guide
A traditional Japanese unit of length, roughly equal to 30.3 cm or about one foot. Also refers to a wooden measuring tool of that length, and appears in idiomatic expressions.
Expressing the traditional Japanese unit of length (approx. 30.3 cm)
The standard term for the shaku unit. Commonly used in traditional contexts like carpentry, architecture, and kimono-making.
この柱の長さは六尺です。
This pillar is six shaku long.
一尺は約30.3センチメートルです。
One shaku is about 30.3 centimeters.
Referring to the physical ruler or measuring stick of one shaku length
Can also mean a ruler or measuring stick, especially a traditional one used in carpentry or tailoring.
大工さんは尺を使って木材を測ります。
The carpenter uses a shaku ruler to measure the lumber.
A carpenter's square or traditional L-shaped ruler, often marked in shaku and sun.
Using 'shaku' in set phrases or proverbs
Literally 'the shaku lengthens', meaning to become more skilled or improve, often used in traditional arts.
稽古を続けて、尺が伸びた。
Through continued practice, my skill improved.
Literally 'take a shaku', meaning to measure or assess something, often used figuratively.
まずは相手の力量の尺を取る。
First, gauge the opponent's ability.
Proverb: 'Even a one-sun bug has a half-shaku soul.' Means even the small and weak have their pride. Uses shaku in a metaphorical sense.
一寸の虫にも五分の魂というから、弱い者を侮ってはいけない。
As the saying goes, even a tiny bug has a fighting spirit, so don't underestimate the weak.
In modern Japan, the metric system is standard. Shaku is mainly used in traditional fields like carpentry, architecture, and kimono-making. When giving measurements in everyday conversation, use centimeters or meters unless the context is specifically traditional.
One shaku is almost exactly one foot (30.48 cm vs. 30.3 cm). In rough conversions, you can think of 1 shaku ≈ 1 foot, but for precision, note the slight difference.
Check the right angle with a carpenter's square.