How to say "classics" in Japanese

• 古典学こてんがく
  nounCovers classics as an academic discipline: classical studies, the scholarly study of ancient Greece and Rome. A less common term used in academic contexts; it does not mean classic works themselves.
• 西洋古典学せいようこてんがく
  nounA more explicit name for the same field, spelling out that it is Western classical studies of Greco-Roman antiquity; useful when that Western scope needs to be stated. Also less common.

Both are less common academic terms for classics as a field of study (Greco-Roman antiquity), not for classic works; choose 古典学 generally and 西洋古典学 when the Western focus needs stating.

Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only

• 古典学こてんがくclassics
• 西洋古典学せいようこてんがくWestern classical studies