Translation guide
The English word 'ceramics' can refer to the art of making objects from clay, the objects themselves (pottery, porcelain, etc.), or the material. This guide covers how to express these meanings naturally in Japanese.
Referring to ceramics as a field, hobby, or artistic practice.
The most common word for pottery as an art or craft. Used for both professional and hobby contexts.
週末に陶芸教室に通っています。
I go to a ceramics class on weekends.
陶芸は日本の伝統文化の一つです。
Ceramics is one of Japan's traditional cultures.
Literally 'fired thing', a broad term for pottery and ceramics. Can refer to the craft or the products.
焼き物に興味があります。
I'm interested in ceramics.
Referring to items made of ceramic material, such as plates, bowls, vases.
General term for pottery, earthenware, ceramic ware. Often used for tableware and decorative items.
この陶器の皿は手作りです。
This ceramic plate is handmade.
彼女は陶器のコレクションを持っています。
She has a collection of ceramics.
Also used for ceramic objects in general, especially in traditional contexts.
Referring to the hard, brittle material made by firing clay.
Collective term for pottery and porcelain, often used when discussing the material properties.
この部品は陶磁器でできています。
This part is made of ceramics.
Commonly used in engineering and material science for advanced ceramics.
陶芸 (tōgei) specifically means the art/craft of pottery making. 焼き物 (yakimono) is a broader term that can refer to the craft or the fired objects. 陶器 (tōki) usually refers to the ceramic ware itself (earthenware). Use 陶芸 for the activity, 陶器 for the items, and 焼き物 for a general, traditional feel.
陶芸を習いたいです。
I want to learn ceramics (pottery making).
この陶器は高価です。
This ceramic piece is expensive.
The loanword セラミックス (seramikkusu) is mainly for industrial or modern art contexts. Using it for traditional Japanese pottery can sound unnatural. Stick to 陶芸 or 焼き物 for traditional crafts.
この地域は焼き物で有名です。
This region is famous for its ceramics.
Loanword from English, used mainly in technical or industrial contexts, or for modern art ceramics.
この展示会では現代セラミックスが紹介されています。
This exhibition features contemporary ceramics.
Ceramics have excellent heat resistance.