Translation guide
In Japanese, 'accessories' most commonly refers to fashion accessories like jewelry, bags, and scarves. The word アクセサリー (akusesarī) is widely used. For specific types, there are native Japanese terms. This guide covers how to talk about accessories in various contexts.
Referring to items like jewelry, belts, scarves, hats, bags, etc., that complement an outfit.
The most common and general term for fashion accessories. It covers a wide range of items, especially jewelry, but also includes bags, scarves, etc.
彼女はいつもおしゃれなアクセサリーをつけている。
She always wears stylish accessories.
この店はアクセサリーの品揃えが豊富だ。
This store has a wide selection of accessories.
A more formal term for 'ornaments' or 'decorative items'. Used in written contexts or when emphasizing the decorative aspect.
この博物館には古代の装飾品が展示されている。
Ancient accessories are displayed in this museum.
Specifically referring to items like necklaces, rings, earrings, bracelets, etc.
Often used to mean jewelry, especially in casual conversation. Context usually makes it clear.
誕生日にアクセサリーをプレゼントした。
I gave her accessories (jewelry) for her birthday.
Specifically means 'jewelry', often implying precious metals and gems. More upscale than アクセサリー.
A traditional term for personal ornaments, including jewelry. Slightly old-fashioned or formal.
Referring to handbags, backpacks, wallets, etc., as fashion items.
The general term for bags. Often used in the context of fashion accessories.
新しいバッグを買った。
I bought a new bag.
A native Japanese word for bag, often used for more functional bags like school bags or briefcases, but can be used for fashion bags as well.
Referring to items like scarves, hats, gloves, belts, etc.
Scarf (usually winter scarf). Note: スカーフ (sukāfu) is a lighter fashion scarf.
寒いのでマフラーを巻いた。
I wore a scarf because it was cold.
Hat or cap.
Belt.
そのベルトはパンツによく合う。
That belt goes well with the pants.
Referring to items like phone cases, earphones, chargers, etc.
Also used for tech accessories, often with a modifier like スマホ (sumaho) for smartphone.
スマホアクセサリーを買いに行く。
I'm going to buy smartphone accessories.
Peripheral devices, used for computer accessories like mice, keyboards, etc. More technical.
Referring to items like car mats, seat covers, phone holders, etc.
Car accessories. Often used in compound form.
カーアクセサリー専門店に行った。
I went to a car accessories specialty store.
More descriptive phrase meaning 'car accessories'.
車のアクセサリーをネットで注文した。
I ordered car accessories online.
アクセサリー is the most common and broad term, covering everything from cheap fashion jewelry to bags and scarves. ジュエリー specifically means jewelry, often with precious materials, and sounds more luxurious. 装身具 is a formal, somewhat dated term for personal ornaments, rarely used in daily conversation.
このアクセサリーは安かったけど、かわいい。
These accessories were cheap but cute.
婚約指輪は高級ジュエリーです。
The engagement ring is fine jewelry.
While アクセサリー is versatile, for specific items like 'hat' or 'scarf', it's more natural to use the specific word (帽子, マフラー) rather than the generic アクセサリー, unless you are talking about them as a category of fashion items.
彼女は高級ジュエリーを身につけていた。
She was wearing expensive jewelry.
この店は装身具を専門に扱っている。
This store specializes in personal accessories.
That bag is very stylish.
I often wear a hat in summer.
パソコンの周辺機器を揃える。
To get computer accessories/peripherals.