Translation guide
The English word 'symbol' can refer to a sign, emblem, or character representing something else. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 記号 (kigō) for abstract symbols, while 象徴 (shōchō) is used for things that represent ideas or qualities. For specific contexts like mathematical symbols or status symbols, other terms apply.
A written or printed sign used to represent something, such as in mathematics, music, or maps.
The most general term for a symbol as a sign or mark, used in academic, technical, and everyday contexts.
この地図では、赤い線が主要道路の記号です。
On this map, the red line is the symbol for major roads.
Often used for codes, signs, or marks, especially in technical fields like mathematics or cryptography.
数学では、プラスは加算の符号です。
In mathematics, the plus sign is the symbol for addition.
A loanword from English, often used for iconic or graphical symbols, like logos or computer icons.
ハートのシンボルは愛を表します。
The heart symbol represents love.
Something that stands for or represents an idea, quality, or group, like a national flag or a brand logo.
Used for something that symbolizes an abstract concept, like peace or freedom. Often used in formal or literary contexts.
鳩は平和の象徴です。
The dove is a symbol of peace.
Also used for representative symbols, especially in modern contexts like corporate logos or status symbols.
Can mean a mark or sign, but sometimes used for a symbol of something, like a token or proof. Less common for abstract symbols.
An object or possession that indicates a person's wealth or social standing.
A direct loanword phrase commonly used in Japanese to mean 'status symbol'.
高級車はステータスシンボルと見なされることが多い。
Luxury cars are often seen as status symbols.
A more literal translation using 象徴, meaning 'symbol of status'. Slightly more formal.
その時計は彼にとって地位の象徴だった。
That watch was a symbol of status for him.
A graphical icon or a special character used in user interfaces or programming.
Used specifically for graphical icons on a computer screen.
デスクトップのアイコンをクリックしてください。
Please click the icon on the desktop.
Can refer to special characters or symbols in text, like punctuation or mathematical symbols in programming.
記号 is for signs and marks (e.g., musical notes, map symbols). 象徴 is for abstract representation (e.g., dove for peace). シンボル overlaps with both but is more casual and modern, often used for logos and icons.
この車は彼の成功のシンボルだ。
This car is a symbol of his success.
This ring is a symbol of our friendship.
Please include at least one symbol in your password.