Translation guide
In Japanese, the word for 'shirt' depends on the type. The most common general term is シャツ, but for dress shirts, ワイシャツ is used. There are also specific words for T-shirts, polo shirts, and other styles.
Referring to a shirt in general, especially casual shirts, T-shirts, or as a broad category.
The most common and versatile word for 'shirt'. It covers a wide range of shirts, especially casual ones. Often used in compounds.
How much is this shirt?
新しいシャツを買った。
I bought a new shirt.
Specifically a T-shirt. Very common.
今日は白いTシャツを着ている。
I'm wearing a white T-shirt today.
Referring to a formal or business shirt, typically with a collar and buttons.
Refers specifically to a dress shirt, often worn with a suit. Derived from 'white shirt' but now used for any color.
明日の面接のためにワイシャツをアイロンがけした。
I ironed a dress shirt for tomorrow's interview.
Referring to a polo shirt or a casual shirt with a collar.
The standard word for a polo shirt.
ゴルフの時はポロシャツを着ます。
I wear a polo shirt when playing golf.
Referring to shirts as a general clothing category, often in contrast to pants, jackets, etc.
Means 'shirts' as a category, like 'shirts and pants'. Used in retail or laundry contexts.
シャツ類はこの棚にあります。
Shirts are on this shelf.
シャツ is a broad term that can refer to any shirt, but in a business context, ワイシャツ specifically means a dress shirt. If you say シャツを着てください (Please wear a shirt), it might be interpreted as a casual shirt. To be clear about a formal shirt, use ワイシャツ.
面接にはワイシャツを着て行きます。
I will wear a dress shirt to the interview.
While シャツ is the general word, it may not cover all types of shirts. For example, a 'sweatshirt' is スウェット or トレーナー, not スウェットシャツ. A 'flannel shirt' is often フランネルシャツ but can also be ネルシャツ. Be specific when needed.
A less common synonym for dress shirt, mainly used in western Japan. Derived from 'cutter shirt', a brand name.
父はいつもカッターシャツを着ている。
My father always wears a dress shirt.