Translation guide
A physical object made or modified by humans, often of historical or cultural interest. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 人工物 (jinkoubutsu), but depending on context, words like 遺物 (ibutsu) for archaeological remains or 工芸品 (kougeihin) for crafted items may be more appropriate.
Referring to any object created or modified by humans, as opposed to natural objects.
The most direct and common translation for 'artefact' in a general sense. It literally means 'man-made object' and is used in scientific, technical, and everyday contexts.
The artefacts found in this cave indicate the life of ancient humans.
Emphasizes that the object has been processed or worked on by humans. Often used for stone tools or manufactured goods.
These stone artefacts are from the Paleolithic era.
An object of historical or archaeological significance, often excavated or preserved.
Specifically refers to relics or remains from the past, commonly used in archaeology and history. It implies something left behind by previous cultures.
Many valuable artefacts are on display at the museum.
Specifically means 'excavated items', used for artefacts unearthed from archaeological sites.
Refers to buried objects or treasure, often used in legal or archaeological contexts. Less common in everyday speech.
An object made with skill, often decorative or artistic, such as pottery, textiles, or carvings.
Refers to crafted items or handicrafts, emphasizing artistic or traditional skill. Suitable for cultural artefacts like pottery or textiles.
The traditional artefacts of this region are popular with tourists.
Specifically means 'art object' or 'work of art'. Used for artefacts with high artistic value.
An object that represents a particular culture, often used in anthropology or museums.
Means 'cultural property' or 'cultural asset'. Broadly used for artefacts of cultural significance, including buildings and intangible heritage.
This temple is designated as an important cultural artefact.
Refers to folk tools or everyday items used by common people in the past. Often used in ethnography.
人工物 is the most general term for any man-made object. 遺物 specifically refers to historical or archaeological remains. 工芸品 emphasizes craftsmanship and artistic value. Choose based on whether you are talking about a generic object, an ancient relic, or a crafted item.
This artefact is modern.
Artefacts must be handled with care.
Beautiful artefacts are on display.
The loanword アーティファクト (aateifakuto) is sometimes used in technical contexts like software development or image processing, but it is not natural for physical objects. Stick to the Japanese terms above.
この遺跡からは多くの出土品が見つかった。
Many artefacts were unearthed from this site.
By law, buried artefacts must be reported to the state.
その美術品は何世紀も前のものだ。
That artefact is centuries old.
This artefact was used in old farmhouses.