Translation guide
The most common Japanese word for 'coffin' is 棺 (ひつぎ). In everyday conversation, 棺 is widely understood, but in formal or Buddhist contexts, more specific terms like 棺桶 (かんおけ) or 寝棺 (ねかん) may be used. Note that Western-style coffins and traditional Japanese caskets differ in shape, which can affect word choice.
The speaker wants to refer to a coffin in a general, everyday context.
The standard word for 'coffin' in Japanese. It is neutral and can be used in most situations.
carry a coffin
place in a coffin
Literally 'coffin tub', this word is common in spoken Japanese and often used in Buddhist funeral contexts. It can sound slightly more traditional or rustic.
nail a coffin shut
The speaker wants to specifically refer to a Western-style coffin (tapered shape, often with a split lid).
Refers to a Western-style coffin where the deceased lies flat. Contrasts with 座棺 (ざかん), a sitting-style casket used in some traditional Japanese burials.
In the West, coffins (lying-type) are common.
The speaker wants a more euphemistic or formal term, similar to 'casket' in English.
Both mean 'coffin', but 棺桶 is more colloquial and often associated with traditional Japanese wooden tub-like caskets. 棺 is the broader, more neutral term. In modern contexts, 棺 is usually sufficient.
In Japan, cremation is the norm, and coffins are typically made of wood and are cremated with the body. The word 棺 often implies a cremation coffin. For Western-style burial coffins, 寝棺 may be specified.