Translation guide
The English word 'counterfeit' can be an adjective, noun, or verb. This guide covers how to express the concept of something being fake, forged, or imitated with intent to deceive, as well as the act of producing such items.
Describing an object that is made to look like the real thing in order to deceive, especially money, branded goods, or official documents.
The most common and general adjective meaning 'fake' or 'counterfeit'. It directly modifies a noun.
This is a counterfeit brand bag.
He was arrested on suspicion of using counterfeit bills.
Specifically means 'forged' or 'counterfeited', often used for documents, money, or official items. It is the past tense of the verb 偽造する (to forge).
A counterfeit passport was found.
Means 'imitation' or 'reproduction', but can imply counterfeit when intent to deceive is clear. Often used for art or antiques.
Counterfeit paintings were being sold as genuine.
Referring to the fake object itself, such as a knockoff product or forged document.
The standard word for a fake or counterfeit item. Can be used for anything from money to luxury goods.
This ring was appraised as a counterfeit.
A more literary or formal term for a counterfeit, especially art, antiques, or calligraphy. Often used in the context of forgery of artistic works.
Literally 'copy product', commonly used for counterfeit branded goods like bags, watches, etc. Often used in consumer contexts.
I ended up buying a counterfeit product overseas.
The act of making a fake version of something, especially money, documents, or signatures.
The standard verb for counterfeiting or forging official items like money, documents, or certificates.
He was indicted for counterfeiting passports.
Counterfeiting banknotes is a serious crime.
Means 'to falsify' or 'to misrepresent'. Can be used for counterfeiting in a broader sense, such as faking one's identity or forging a signature.
A formal and literary verb for counterfeiting, especially art or antiques. Rarely used in everyday speech.
He was counterfeiting ukiyo-e prints.
Describing something that is not authentic or sincere, such as emotions, smiles, or identities.
Means 'false' or 'fake' in an abstract sense, often used for emotions, statements, or appearances.
Her smile was counterfeit (fake).
Making a false declaration is illegal.
Means 'pretended' or 'sham', emphasizing outward appearance that hides the truth.
His kindness was counterfeit (a sham).
偽物 (にせもの) is the general term for any fake item, while 偽造品 (ぎぞうひん) specifically refers to forged or counterfeited items like money or documents. Use 偽物 for everyday knockoffs, and 偽造品 for serious legal contexts.
This bag is a fake.
Possession of counterfeit goods is prohibited by law.
English uses 'counterfeit' directly before nouns (e.g., counterfeit money). In Japanese, you must use 偽の (にせの) or 偽造された (ぎぞうされた) before the noun. Simply saying 偽 money is ungrammatical.
He was caught with counterfeit money.
偽札 (にせさつ) is a common abbreviation for counterfeit bills.
The market is flooded with counterfeit goods.
There are many counterfeits circulating in the market.
その絵は贋物と判明した。
The painting turned out to be a counterfeit.
彼は署名を偽った。
He counterfeited the signature.