Translation guide
How to express the specific choice of words in Japanese, from formal documents to casual phrasing.
Referring to the specific words used in a sentence, document, or statement.
Common word for phrasing or wording, often used for stylistic choices.
Emphasizing the precise words used, often in quotes or reports.
Describing the manner in which something is expressed.
Pattern meaning 'the way of saying ~', used to discuss wording.
それはちょっときつい言い方だね。
That's a bit harsh wording.
言い回し focuses on stylistic or rhetorical phrasing, while 言葉遣い emphasizes politeness and word choice in social context. Use 言い回し for 'turn of phrase' and 言葉遣い for 'language use'.
彼の言い回しはユニークだ。
His wording is unique.
目上の人への言葉遣いに気をつける。
Be careful with your wording toward superiors.
There is no single Japanese word that covers all uses of 'wording'. Choose based on context: 言い回し for phrasing, 言葉遣い for politeness, 表現 for expression, 文言 for formal documents.
この言い回しは少し硬すぎる。
This wording is a bit too formal.
Refers to wording in terms of politeness, tone, or register.
彼の言葉遣いは丁寧だ。
His wording is polite.
General term for expression, often used when discussing wording choices.
もっと適切な表現はありますか？
Is there a more appropriate wording?
Formal term for wording, especially in legal or official documents.
契約書の文言を確認する。
Check the wording of the contract.
Original text or wording, used when referring to the exact source.
原文のまま引用してください。
Please quote the exact wording.
Word-for-word, literal wording. Often used in translation contexts.
逐語訳ではなく、自然な表現にしてください。
Don't translate word-for-word; use natural wording.
Literal wording, often used in legal or technical contexts.
字句通りに解釈する。
Interpret according to the exact wording.
Pattern meaning 'the expression ~', used to refer to specific wording.
「検討します」という表現はよく使われる。
The wording 'we will consider it' is often used.