Translation guide
The English word 'clothes' refers to items worn on the body. In Japanese, the most common and general word is 服 (fuku). However, there are several other words that translate to 'clothes' depending on context, formality, and style. This guide helps you choose the right word.
clothes (general)
Referring to clothes in general, everyday wear, or one's outfit.
The most common and versatile word for 'clothes'. Used in daily conversation for clothing in general.
I bought new clothes.
Those clothes are cute.
A slightly more formal term for clothing, often used in written contexts or when referring to clothing as a category (e.g., in stores or laundry).
I organized my clothes.
Specifically refers to Western-style clothing, as opposed to traditional Japanese clothing. Commonly used in daily life, but 服 is more general.
wardrobe (for Western clothes)
Talking about clothes in an abstract, commercial, or formal sense.
Refers to clothing as goods or merchandise, often used in business contexts (e.g., clothing industry, clothing store).
clothing store
A formal, somewhat technical term for clothing, often used in official or academic contexts (e.g., school uniforms, military clothing).
Specifically referring to traditional Japanese garments like kimono.
Literally 'thing to wear', but now almost exclusively means traditional Japanese clothing, especially kimono. Do not use for Western clothes.
Using 着物 for everyday Western clothes sounds unnatural; use 服 instead.
Wearing a kimono is difficult.
Japanese-style clothing in general, contrasting with 洋服 (Western clothes).
Referring to a specific set of clothes or what someone is wearing.
服 is the everyday word for clothes. 衣類 is more formal and often used for clothing as items (e.g., laundry, storage). 衣料 is used for clothing as merchandise or in industry terms.
着物 specifically means traditional Japanese clothing. Using it to refer to a T-shirt or jeans will cause confusion.
clothing expenses
Which do you prefer, Japanese clothes or Western clothes?
Today's outfit is casual.
To tidy up one's clothes/appearance.