Translation guide
A small ornamental figure, often collectible. In Japanese, the most common word is フィギュア, a loanword from English. Other terms exist for traditional or specific types.
A small plastic or resin figure of a character, often from anime, manga, or video games, collected by fans.
The standard loanword for collectible figurines, especially those from anime, manga, or games. Widely understood.
新しいフィギュアを買った。
I bought a new figurine.
このフィギュアは限定版だ。
This figurine is a limited edition.
General word for doll or figure. Can be used for figurines, but may sound more like a doll or puppet. Often used for traditional or decorative figures.
棚に小さな人形が飾ってある。
A small figurine is displayed on the shelf.
A small ornamental figure, such as an animal, person, or abstract shape, used for decoration.
Ornament, decorative object. Often ceramic or metal. Suitable for figurines that are purely decorative.
机の上に猫の置物がある。
There is a cat figurine on the desk.
Statuette, small statue. More formal or artistic term. Used in art contexts.
この小像は古代のものだ。
This figurine is from ancient times.
A small-scale figure used in model making, dioramas, or tabletop games.
Loanword for miniature. Used for small-scale models, including figurines for dioramas or wargaming.
彼は戦車のミニチュアを集めている。
He collects miniature tanks.
Also used for miniature figures in gaming contexts, though often associated with character collectibles.
フィギュア is specifically for collectible figures, often from pop culture. 人形 is a broader term for dolls and figures, including traditional ones. If you say 人形 for an anime figure, it might sound like a child's doll.
このフィギュアは高い。
This figurine is expensive.
この人形は高い。
This doll is expensive.
I painted this figurine for the game.