How to say "sketch" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 描くえがくgodan verb, transitive verbThis is the verb: choose it when 'sketch' is an action rather than a thing. It covers producing a picture by drawing, painting, or sketching, as in sketching a landscape or a face.
- nounA noun for an illustration or picture; the word is itself an abbreviation. Use it when 'sketch' means a drawn picture or illustration, as in artwork for a magazine or book.
- noun, suru verb, transitive verbThe loanword, used for both the sketch itself and the activity of sketching: a quick, roughly drawn picture, or sketching as an activity, such as sketching scenery outdoors.
- 図案ずあんno-adjectiveHere 'sketch' means a design or drafted plan: a design drawn out in advance, as for a pattern or an emblem. It is not the word for a sketch as a picture or artwork.
- 絵えnounThe general word for a picture or drawing. Use it when 'sketch' simply means a picture someone has drawn; on its own it does not convey the quick, rough quality that 'sketch' often suggests.
Use 「スケッチ」 for a quick rough sketch or the act of sketching, 「描く」 when sketch is a verb, 「イラスト」 for an illustration, 絵 for a picture or drawing in general, and 図案 for a design draft.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
See also
This browser can't play pronunciations (needs Safari 18.4 or later, or Chrome / Edge / Firefox).
