Translation guide
A small to medium bag carried by hand, used mainly by women for personal items. In Japanese, the most common term is ハンドバッグ, but other words like バッグ or 手提げかばん are also used depending on context.
handbag
A bag carried by hand or over the shoulder, used for daily essentials, often as a fashion item.
The most direct and common loanword for 'handbag'. Used in fashion, shopping, and everyday conversation.
I bought a new handbag.
That handbag is very stylish.
A general term for 'bag', often used for handbags in casual contexts. Can refer to any bag, but context clarifies it's a handbag.
Where did you buy this bag?
A native Japanese term meaning 'hand-carried bag'. Slightly more formal or descriptive, often used in written contexts or when specifying the type.
My mother loves her leather handbag.
A small, often elegant bag without a strap, carried in the hand for formal occasions.
A bigger bag carried by hand or over the shoulder, used for work or shopping.
ハンドバッグ is the most specific and common for a woman's handbag. バッグ is a general term for any bag, but in context can mean handbag. 手提げかばん is a native Japanese word that sounds slightly more formal or descriptive, often used in writing or when emphasizing the hand-carried aspect.
She has a luxury handbag.
That bag is cute.
This handbag is light and easy to use.
手袋 means 'gloves', not 'handbag'. Be careful not to confuse them.
A small handbag goes well with the dress.
A shoulder bag, often used as a handbag alternative. Can be carried by hand or on the shoulder.
I use a shoulder bag for commuting.