How to say "stripe" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 線せんnoun, noun (suffix)Primarily means 'line' and covers 'stripe' only in the sense of a linear mark or streak, such as a stria. For actual striped patterns this is usually not the word you want.
- 縞しまnoun (suffix), no-adjectiveCovers striped patterns, bars, and streaks; the native word for stripes in fabric, clothing, and natural markings where a pattern of bands is meant.
- nounThe loanword for 'stripe', typically for striped patterns in clothing, fabric, and design contexts, as in striped shirts or wallpaper.
Use 「ストライプ」 for striped patterns in clothing and design, 縞 for actual striped patterns or streaks, and 線 mainly when you mean a line rather than a stripe.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
See also
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