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.
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.
棺桶に釘を打つ
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.
西洋では寝棺が一般的だ。
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.