Translation guide
The English word "artwork" can refer to a physical piece of art, the visual elements in a publication or product, or the collective body of an artist's work. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression based on context.
Referring to a single work of art, such as a painting, sculpture, or installation.
The most general and common word for a creative work, including art, literature, music, etc. Safe for most contexts.
This artwork is by Picasso.
I saw a wonderful artwork at the museum.
Specifically refers to objects of fine art, often with a nuance of being valuable or collectible. Used for paintings, sculptures, antiques, etc.
This artwork was traded at a high price.
Loanword from English, used mainly in creative industries (design, advertising, games) to refer to visual assets or illustrations. Not typically used for traditional fine art.
I'm in charge of the game's artwork.
Referring to the pictures, drawings, or design elements that accompany text or decorate a product.
Specifically illustrations inserted into a book or article. Very common for novels, textbooks, etc.
The artwork in this book is very beautiful.
Short for イラストレーション. Broadly used for any kind of illustration, including digital art, manga-style drawings, and commercial graphics.
A formal term for plates, figures, or illustrations in printed materials, often used in academic or technical contexts.
Referring to all the works created by a particular artist, as in 'the artwork of Van Gogh'.
作品群 (sakuhin-gun) means 'body of work' or 'collection of works'. Use with the artist's name.
Van Gogh's artwork is loved around the world.
Simply 'works' by an artist. Can be singular or plural depending on context.
I'm studying Picasso's artwork.
The word アート (āto) means 'art' in a broad, abstract sense (the concept of art, the art world). It is not used to refer to a specific piece of artwork. Use 作品 or 美術品 instead.
Intended: This artwork is expensive.
This artwork is expensive.
雑誌のイラストを描く仕事をしています。
I draw artwork for magazines.
論文に図版を追加する。
Add artwork to the paper.