Translation guide
In Japanese, the word for 'appliance' depends on the context. The most common general term is 家電 (kaden), which specifically refers to household electrical appliances. For non-electrical appliances or a broader sense, other words are used.
kitchen appliance
medical appliance
Refers to electrical devices used in the home, such as refrigerators, washing machines, and microwaves.
The standard term for household electrical appliances. It is an abbreviation of 家庭用電気製品 (かていようでんきせいひん).
I bought a new appliance.
The full formal term for household electrical appliances. Used in official contexts or product descriptions.
A broader sense of 'appliance' that includes non-electrical devices, tools, or equipment, often used in technical or medical contexts.
Refers to utensils, instruments, or apparatus. Often used for non-electrical devices like medical or laboratory equipment.
Specifically refers to electrical appliances used in the kitchen, such as rice cookers, toasters, and blenders.
A common term for kitchen electrical appliances. Combines 調理 (cooking) and 家電 (household electrical appliance).
Refers to small, often portable electrical appliances like hair dryers, electric kettles, or irons.
The English loanword アプライアンス is rarely used in Japanese and may not be understood. Stick to the native terms above.
I want to buy an appliance. (Unnatural)
家電 is specifically for electrical household items. 器具 is broader and includes non-electrical tools and instruments. Use 家電 for things like refrigerators and TVs; use 器具 for medical or laboratory equipment.
I need to buy some new kitchen appliances.
This store has cheap appliances.
Safety standards for household electrical appliances have been strengthened.
A slightly more formal or explicit version of 家電, often used in written materials.
Please cooperate in recycling home appliances.
Please sterilize the medical appliances.
This appliance is used for experiments.
Means 'device' or 'apparatus', often for larger or more complex equipment. Can be used for both electrical and mechanical appliances.
This appliance operates automatically.
Refers to machinery or equipment, often in industrial or technical settings. Less common for everyday household items.
New communication appliances were introduced.
Where is the kitchen appliance section?
A more casual term using the English loanword 'kitchen'. Common in advertising and everyday speech.
They're having a sale on kitchen appliances.
Small appliances are convenient to carry.
この家電は電気をたくさん使います。
This appliance uses a lot of electricity.
The hospital has modern medical appliances.