Translation guide
The English term 'yellow jacket' can refer to a type of wasp, a style of jacket, or a specific book/guide. This guide focuses on the insect meaning, which is the most common and useful for learners.
Referring to the stinging insect, a type of wasp with yellow and black markings.
Referring to a yellow-colored jacket, such as a rain jacket, sports coat, or fashion item.
Standard phrase for a yellow jacket (clothing). Use ジャケット for a jacket/blazer, or 上着 (うわぎ) for a more general outerwear.
彼は黄色いジャケットを着ている。
He is wearing a yellow jacket.
Referring to the Yellow Pages telephone directory or similar guide.
General term for hornet, often used for larger yellow jacket species. Note: In Japanese, スズメバチ typically refers to hornets (genus Vespa), which are closely related and visually similar to yellow jackets (genus Vespula). For most everyday situations, this is the most natural equivalent.
公園でスズメバチに刺された。
I got stung by a yellow jacket in the park.
Paper wasp; often mistaken for yellow jackets. Smaller and less aggressive, but commonly encountered. Use when you want to be more specific about a less aggressive wasp.
ベランダにアシナガバチの巣ができた。
A paper wasp (yellow jacket) nest was built on the balcony.
Literally 'yellow bee/wasp'. This is a descriptive phrase, not a standard term. It can be used to describe the insect by color if the specific name is unknown, but it's not precise.
あの黄色い蜂は何ですか？
What is that yellow jacket?
More general term for a yellow outer garment. 上着 can refer to jackets, coats, or cardigans.
黄色の上着を羽織った。
I threw on a yellow jacket.
The Japanese term for Yellow Pages, a business telephone directory. Often used as a proper noun.
イエローページで電気屋を探した。
I looked up an electrician in the Yellow Pages.