How to say "instrument" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 道具どうぐnounCovers the everyday sense of 'instrument' as a general tool or implement used by hand. It is the broadest and most neutral choice for physical objects that help you do a task.この道具はなんの役にもたたない。↗This tool is good for nothing.
- 方便ほうべんnounOnly the figurative sense: an instrument as a means or expedient for achieving something. It is not used for physical instruments at all, so it is rarely the word you want unless discussing means to an end.
- 用具ようぐnounRefers to instruments or equipment for a specific purpose or activity, often a set of gear. Choose it when the 'instrument' is functional equipment tied to a particular use.
- 器具きぐnounSuits instruments as utensils, implements, or devices, especially precise or specialized apparatus such as measuring or medical instruments. It suggests a more technical or purpose-built item than 道具.
- 機械きかいnounCovers instruments in the sense of mechanical or electrical devices — apparatus and appliances. Use it when the instrument is a machine with moving or powered parts, not a hand tool.
For physical tools use 道具, 用具, or 器具 depending on the equipment's purpose; 機械 covers mechanical instruments and appliances; 方便 is figurative, meaning an expedient means to an end.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
See also
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