Translation guide
The English word 'wall' can refer to physical walls, barriers, or metaphorical walls. In Japanese, different words are used depending on the material, context, and whether it's interior/exterior. This guide covers the most common and useful expressions.
To refer to a wall as a structural part of a building, room, or outdoor barrier.
The most common and general word for 'wall'. Used for both interior and exterior walls, as well as metaphorical walls.
I hung a picture on the wall of the room.
その壁はコンクリートでできている。
That wall is made of concrete.
Specifically refers to a fence or wall surrounding a house, garden, or property. Often made of wood, stone, or blocks.
家の周りに高い塀がある。
There is a high wall around the house.
Refers to castle walls or ramparts. Used in historical or architectural contexts.
その城の城壁はとても厚い。
The castle walls are very thick.
To refer to a wall inside a building, especially as a partition between rooms.
Same as above, but context makes it clear it's interior.
隣の部屋の音が壁を通して聞こえる。
I can hear sounds from the next room through the wall.
Refers to a partition or divider, often not a full structural wall. Can be temporary or movable.
To express a figurative wall, such as an emotional barrier, communication barrier, or obstacle.
Used metaphorically just like in English. Very common.
彼との間に壁を感じる。
I feel a wall between him and me.
言葉の壁を乗り越えるのは難しい。
It's difficult to overcome the language barrier.
A more formal or technical term for 'barrier' or 'obstacle'. Often used in business or social contexts.
To refer to a wall as a surface used for activities like climbing, writing, or displaying.
Again, the general word works in these contexts.
子供が壁に落書きをした。
The child drew graffiti on the wall.
彼は壁を登るのが得意だ。
He is good at climbing walls.
To refer to a wall of players in sports like soccer.
Used in sports contexts as well.
フリーキックのとき、選手たちは壁を作った。
During the free kick, the players formed a wall.
壁 (かべ) is a general wall, while 塀 (へい) is specifically a fence or wall around a property. Using 塀 for an interior wall would be incorrect.
Just like in English, 壁 is frequently used metaphorically for barriers or obstacles. It's safe to use in most contexts.
We installed partitions in the office.
貿易障壁を取り除く必要がある。
We need to remove trade barriers.
Specifically a climbing wall (artificial rock wall). Loanword from English.
ジムに新しいクライミングウォールができた。
A new climbing wall was built at the gym.