Translation guide
In Japanese, 'tall building' is most commonly expressed as 高層ビル (kōsō biru) for modern high-rises, or 高い建物 (takai tatemono) for any tall structure. The choice depends on context and formality.
Referring to any building that is tall, in everyday conversation.
The most straightforward and neutral way to say 'tall building'. 高い means 'tall/high' and 建物 means 'building'. Suitable for any context.
あそこに高い建物が見える。
I can see a tall building over there.
Emphasizing a very tall, modern building, often with many floors.
Referring to a tall building in terms of its height or as a notable structure.
Literally 'tall-statured building'. 背 means 'stature/height'. Slightly more colloquial than 高い建物, often used for buildings that stand out.
駅の前に背の高いビルができた。
A tall building was built in front of the station.
高い建物 is a general term for any tall building, while 高層ビル specifically refers to modern high-rise buildings with many floors. Use 高い建物 for houses, temples, or older structures that are simply tall, and 高層ビル for office towers or apartment complexes.
あの高い建物はお寺ですか？
Is that tall building a temple?
あの高層ビルはオフィスビルです。
That high-rise is an office building.
ビル (from 'building') almost always implies a modern, multi-story structure, often made of concrete or steel. 建物 is a broader term for any building, including traditional wooden structures. When in doubt, 建物 is safer for general use.
There are few tall buildings in this town.
Specifically refers to a high-rise or skyscraper. 高層 means 'high-rise' and ビル is short for ビルディング (building). Common in news and formal contexts.
東京には高層ビルがたくさんある。
There are many high-rise buildings in Tokyo.
新しい高層ビルが建設中です。
A new high-rise building is under construction.
A more technical term for 'high-rise building' or 'high-rise architecture'. Often used in architectural or urban planning contexts.
この地域では高層建築が規制されている。
High-rise construction is regulated in this area.
Literally 'super high-rise building'. Used for skyscrapers, typically over 100 meters tall. Common in media.
その超高層ビルは街のシンボルだ。
That skyscraper is a symbol of the city.
A literary or poetic term for 'skyscraper', literally 'sky-scraping tower'. Not used in everyday speech.
摩天楼が立ち並ぶニューヨークの風景。
The scenery of New York with its rows of skyscrapers.