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.
服
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.
新しい服を買った。
I bought new clothes.
その服、かわいいね。
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).
衣類の整理をした。
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.
洋服ダンス
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).
衣料品店
clothing store
A formal, somewhat technical term for clothing, often used in official or academic contexts (e.g., school uniforms, military clothing).
被服費
clothing expenses
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.
着物を着るのは難しい。
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.
Refers to one's attire, dress, or outfit. Often used when talking about dress codes or appearance.
服装に気をつけてください。
Please pay attention to your attire.
今日の服装はカジュアルだ。
Today's outfit is casual.
Refers to personal appearance regarding clothes, often implying neatness or style.
身なりを整える。
To tidy up one's clothes/appearance.
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.
Which do you prefer, Japanese clothes or Western clothes?