How to say "cone" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 錐すいnounCovers cone but also pyramid, and it is the less common choice; for the geometrical figure 円錐 is usually what you want. Do not confuse it with きり, the drill sense of 錐.
- nounSpecifically the cone of a pine, hemlock, or similar conifer — the scaly seed-bearing kind, not a geometric solid. Normally written in kana alone; use it only in this botanical sense.
- 円錐えんすいnounThe everyday word for a cone as a geometric solid, as in mathematics or an ice-cream-cone shape. When you need to say 'cone' of a shape or figure, this is the safest choice.
- 錐体すいたいnounA technical term covering cone, pyramid, and conic solid — a solid with a pointed top. Suits mathematical or scientific description rather than everyday reference to a cone shape.
- 円錐体えんすいたいnounA more technical variant of 円錐 for the geometric solid, with 体 emphasizing the body/solid. Fine in mathematical writing, but 円錐 is the usual everyday word for a cone.
For the geometric sense use 円錐, with 円錐体 and 錐体 as more technical alternatives; 錐 leans toward pyramid/tool senses; 「かさ」 is the botanical cone of pines and similar trees.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
See also
