Translation guide
The English word "signal" covers a wide range of meanings, from physical gestures and traffic lights to abstract indications and electronic transmissions. Japanese uses different words depending on whether you mean a sign, a cue, a traffic signal, a radio signal, or a gesture. This guide breaks down the most useful meanings for learners.
The red, yellow, green lights controlling traffic.
The standard word for traffic signal or traffic light. Often used in compounds like 信号機 (しんごうき) for the physical device.
信号が赤になった。
The signal turned red.
次の信号を右に曲がってください。
Turn right at the next traffic light.
Something that conveys information or prompts an action, often non-verbal.
A sign, signal, or cue given to someone, often a gesture or prearranged action. Commonly used for starting something or giving a go-ahead.
彼は手で合図を送った。
He signaled with his hand.
私の合図で始めてください。
Please start on my signal.
Loanword from English, often used for a sign or signal in contexts like sports, performances, or informal cues. Can also mean autograph.
A sign or indication of something, often used for symptoms, omens, or early signs of a trend. More formal and abstract.
An electrical impulse or wave used to transmit information.
Also used for electronic signals, such as radio, TV, or digital signals. Context distinguishes it from traffic signals.
ラジオの信号が弱い。
The radio signal is weak.
デジタル信号をアナログに変換する。
Convert a digital signal to analog.
Radio waves; often used when talking about reception or transmission of wireless signals.
A movement or action used to communicate non-verbally.
Gesture, bodily movement. Often paired with 手振り (てぶり, hand gestures).
身振り手振りで説明した。
I explained using gestures.
Loanword for gesture, often used in casual or modern contexts.
The flashing light on a vehicle indicating a turn.
Standard term for a vehicle's turn signal. From 'winker'.
右折する前にウインカーを出してください。
Please signal before turning right.
The action of making a signal or giving a sign.
To give a signal or cue. Often used with に/を.
彼は出発の合図をした。
He signaled to depart.
To indicate, show, or point out. More general than just signaling.
このデータは経済の回復を示している。
This data signals an economic recovery.
To send a signal (literal or figurative).
彼は助けを求める信号を送った。
He sent a signal for help.
While 信号 can mean 'signal' in many contexts, it is not used for human gestures or cues. Use 合図 or サイン instead. Saying 手で信号する sounds unnatural; use 手で合図する.
合図 is the native Japanese word for a prearranged signal or cue, often physical. サイン is a loanword and feels more casual or modern, often used in sports or entertainment. 合図 is safer for general use.
彼は開始の合図をした。
He gave the signal to start.
信号が故障している。
The traffic signal is broken.
携帯の電波が入らない。
I can't get a signal on my phone.
The coach gave a signal to the players.
景気回復の兆候が見られる。
There are signs of economic recovery.
There's no cell phone signal.
ジェスチャーゲームをしよう。
Let's play charades.
Formal/technical term for turn signal, often used in official contexts or vehicle manuals.
方向指示器の点滅が速くなったら球切れの可能性があります。
If the turn signal blinks faster, the bulb may be burnt out.