Translation guide
The English word 'clothing' refers to items worn on the body. In Japanese, the most common and general term is 服 (fuku). However, there are several other words that translate to 'clothing' depending on context, formality, and specific type. This guide helps learners choose the right word for everyday situations.
Referring to clothes in general, what someone is wearing, or clothes as a category.
The most common and versatile word for 'clothing'. Used in daily conversation for clothes in general.
I bought new clothes.
Those clothes are cute.
A slightly more formal term for clothing, often used in written contexts, stores, or when referring to clothing as a category (e.g., laundry, donations).
Literally 'things to wear'. Used in set phrases or when emphasizing the act of wearing. Less common in modern casual speech.
I never lack for clothing.
Talking about the clothing business, fashion design, or formal classifications.
Refers to clothing as a product or commodity, often used in industry contexts (e.g., clothing store, clothing industry).
Specifically referring to traditional Japanese garments like kimono.
Japanese-style clothing, typically kimono. Used when contrasting with Western clothing.
Abstract discussions about clothing, such as in sociology or philosophy.
Formal term for clothing, often used in academic or official contexts. Can sound stiff in casual conversation.
Please donate clothing.
Wash the clothing.
I work at a clothing store.
The clothing industry is a big market.
Loanword from English 'apparel', used in fashion and business contexts. Often seen in compound terms like アパレル業界 (apparel industry).
I want to get a job in the apparel industry.
Specifically 'clothing goods' or 'clothing items', used in retail and commercial settings.
This store handles clothing items.
There are few opportunities to wear traditional Japanese clothing.
Literally 'thing to wear', but now almost exclusively means 'kimono'. Can be used broadly for traditional Japanese clothing.
I wore my grandmother's kimono.
Clothing reflects human culture.
Archaic or literary term for clothing, often used in poetic or religious contexts. Not used in daily speech.
Wear a monk's robe.
Organize clothing.
Study the history of clothing.
The English loanword クロージング (kuroojingu) means 'closing' (as in store closing) or 'closing ceremony', not 'clothing'. Avoid this false friend.
The clothing industry is changing rapidly.
衣料 is appropriate for industry contexts.