Translation guide
This entry covers how to refer to a creative work (such as a book, film, song, or artwork) in Japanese. The most common and versatile term is 作品 (sakuhin), but other words are used depending on the type of work and context.
The speaker wants to refer to a creative work in a broad sense, without specifying the type.
The most common and versatile word for a creative work, covering art, literature, music, film, etc. It can be used in both formal and casual contexts.
This is my favorite work.
His latest work is highly acclaimed.
Emphasizes the aspect of creation; often used in legal or formal contexts (e.g., copyright).
The copyright of this creative work belongs to the author.
The speaker is specifically referring to a piece of visual art.
Still the default term for any artwork, including paintings and sculptures.
This work is by Picasso.
Specifically means 'artwork' or 'work of art', often used in museums or art criticism.
Specifically a painting or drawing. Use when the medium is clearly painting.
The speaker is referring to a written creative work.
Again, the general term works perfectly for literary works.
This work is his masterpiece.
Refers to a written work, often with a nuance of authorship or scholarly context.
Means 'literature' as a field, but can sometimes be used to refer to a literary work in a broad sense. Not commonly used for a single work.
Usually refers to the body of literature, not a single work. Use 作品 instead.
The speaker is referring to a piece of music.
The speaker is referring to a movie, film, or video production.
The general term is perfectly natural for films.
This work won an Academy Award.
Simply means 'movie' or 'film'. More specific than 作品.
Refers to a video work, often used for artistic or experimental films, or in a broader sense including TV shows.
The speaker is talking about a work as part of an artist's body of work.
作品 can be combined with other nouns to specify the type of work, e.g., 芸術作品 (artwork), 文学作品 (literary work), 映像作品 (video work). This is a very productive pattern.
This artwork influenced many people.
The phrase 'creative work' is often translated as 創造的な仕事, but this sounds unnatural when referring to an artistic piece. Stick to 作品 or a more specific term.
I really admire her creative work.
This is a creative work of great originality.
Many valuable works of art are exhibited in this museum.
この絵画は19世紀のものです。
This painting is from the 19th century.
この著作は彼の思想をよく表している。
This work well expresses his thoughts.
He is knowledgeable about Japanese literature.
This song is very popular.
この楽曲は複雑な構造を持っています。
This musical piece has a complex structure.
この映画はとても感動的です。
This movie is very moving.
This video work was produced by a young director.
'Snow Country' is Kawabata Yasunari's representative work.