Translation guide
A spire is a tall, pointed structure on top of a building, especially a church or cathedral. This guide covers how to express this architectural feature in Japanese.
Referring to the tall, pointed structure on a roof, typically of a church or similar building.
The standard term for a spire, literally 'pointed tower'. Used for church spires and similar structures.
Loanword from English 'spire'. Used in architectural contexts, but less common than 尖塔.
ゴシック建築のスパイアは特徴的だ。
The spires of Gothic architecture are distinctive.
Literally 'tip of a tower'. Can describe a spire-like point, but is not a specific architectural term.
城の塔の先端に旗が立っていた。
A flag stood at the tip of the castle tower.
Describing a natural rock formation or mountain peak that resembles a spire.
Means 'sharp peak' or 'pinnacle'. Used for pointed mountain tops or rock spires.
その山は鋭い尖峰で知られている。
The mountain is known for its sharp spire.
Literally 'rock tower'. Used for tall, slender rock formations, like those in Bryce Canyon.
尖塔 (せんとう) specifically refers to a pointed spire, while 塔 (とう) is a general term for any tower, pagoda, or tall structure. Use 尖塔 when the pointed shape is important.
教会の尖塔が遠くから見えた。
The church spire was visible from a distance.
その大聖堂には美しい尖塔がある。
That cathedral has a beautiful spire.
奇岩の岩塔が立ち並ぶ風景は圧巻だ。
The landscape with rows of rock spires is breathtaking.
Simple description meaning 'pointed rock'. Not a technical term, but easily understood.
海岸に尖った岩がいくつも突き出ている。
Several pointed rocks jut out along the coast.