Translation guide
The English word "shape" covers physical form, condition, and abstract structure. Japanese uses different words depending on whether you mean outline, 3D form, condition, or the way something is organized.
The external form or outline of an object, often 2D or 3D.
The most common word for shape, form, or figure. Can refer to both 2D and 3D shapes. Also used in abstract senses like 'form of a relationship'.
この箱は変わった形をしている。
This box has a strange shape.
雲が動物の形に見える。
The clouds look like animal shapes.
A more formal or technical term for shape or form, often used in design, engineering, or descriptions of objects.
この部品の形状を測定する。
Measure the shape of this part.
Refers to the visible form or appearance of a person, animal, or sometimes an object, often with a nuance of figure or silhouette.
山の姿が美しい。
The shape of the mountain is beautiful.
The physical condition or fitness of a person or thing, as in 'in good shape'.
Means condition, state, or tone. Used for health, machine performance, or how things are going.
最近、体の調子がいい。
I've been in good shape lately.
この車は調子が悪い。
This car is in bad shape.
Specifically refers to physical condition or health.
General word for state or condition, applicable to objects, systems, etc.
The way something is organized, arranged, or structured, such as a plan or idea taking shape.
Also used for abstract forms, like the shape of an argument or relationship.
計画が形になってきた。
The plan is taking shape.
Refers to form, shape, or pattern, often in a systematic or organizational sense (e.g., business form, life form).
Means framework or outline, used for the basic shape of a plan, system, or agreement.
A shape that is hard to identify, often used for shadows or blurry figures.
Means shadow, silhouette, or a vague shape. Often used when you can't clearly see what something is.
暗闇に人の影が見えた。
I saw the shape of a person in the darkness.
Means contour or outline, often used when the shape is defined by its edges.
A specific geometric figure like a circle, square, or triangle.
The standard word for geometric shapes or figures.
この図形の面積を求めなさい。
Find the area of this shape.
Also used in everyday contexts for geometric shapes, especially in children's language.
形 is the general word for shape and can be used in most situations. 形状 is more technical and often used in written descriptions or specifications. 姿 implies a visible appearance or figure, often with an aesthetic or poetic nuance, and is commonly used for people, animals, or natural scenery.
When talking about physical condition or fitness, use 調子 (ちょうし) or 体調 (たいちょう). Saying いい形 (いい かたち) would mean 'good form/shape' in a visual sense, not 'in good condition'.
どんな形ですか？
What shape is it?
体を鍛えないと。
I need to get in shape.
Literally 'I have to train my body.' A natural way to express getting in shape through exercise.
プロジェクトが形になってきた。
The project is starting to take shape.
体調を整える。
Get in shape (improve one's physical condition).
家はひどい状態だ。
The house is in terrible shape.
新しい経営形態を導入する。
Introduce a new business shape (structure).
協定の枠組みが決まった。
The shape (framework) of the agreement has been decided.
霧の中に建物の輪郭が浮かび上がった。
The shape (outline) of a building emerged in the fog.
Draw a round shape.