Translation guide
A manuscript can refer to a handwritten document, an author's draft submitted for publication, or a historical handwritten book. The most common Japanese equivalent is 原稿 (genkou) for a draft, while 写本 (shahon) or 手書き原稿 (tegaki genkou) are used for historical or handwritten contexts.
The text an author submits to a publisher, editor, or reviewer, whether handwritten or typed.
The standard term for a manuscript in the sense of a draft submitted for publication. It can be handwritten or typed, but in modern contexts it often implies a typed document.
小説の原稿を出版社に送った。
I sent the manuscript of my novel to the publisher.
原稿の締め切りが迫っている。
The manuscript deadline is approaching.
Refers specifically to a rough draft or initial manuscript, often handwritten. It emphasizes the preliminary nature of the text.
彼は小説の草稿を何度も書き直した。
He rewrote the draft of his novel many times.
Explicitly means 'handwritten manuscript'. Used when the physical act of handwriting is important, such as in historical or calligraphic contexts.
その作家は今でも手書き原稿を好む。
That author still prefers handwritten manuscripts.
A document or book written by hand before the invention of printing, often of historical or artistic value.
Refers to a handwritten copy of a text, especially in historical contexts. It is the standard term for medieval manuscripts or ancient handwritten books.
この図書館には貴重な写本が所蔵されている。
This library houses valuable manuscripts.
中世の写本を研究している。
I am studying medieval manuscripts.
Literally 'hand draft', used for an author's handwritten manuscript, often of historical significance. It can refer to the original handwritten version of a famous work.
Refers to ancient or historical documents in general, including manuscripts. It is broader and often used for official records or old letters.
Any text written by hand, as opposed to printed or typed, without specific reference to publication or historical value.
A general phrase meaning 'handwritten document'. It can be used for any handwritten text, from a letter to a note.
手書きの文書をパソコンで清書した。
I typed up the handwritten manuscript on my computer.
Emphasizes that something is written by one's own hand, often used for autographs or original handwritten works by famous people.
これは作家の肉筆原稿です。
This is the author's handwritten manuscript.
原稿 (genkou) is used for a draft intended for publication, while 写本 (shahon) refers to a historical handwritten copy. If you are talking about an author's submission, use 原稿. For a medieval manuscript, use 写本.
The katakana word マニュスクリプト is rarely used and sounds unnatural. Stick to the Japanese terms above.
Natsume Soseki's manuscript is on display.
古文書の解読には専門知識が必要だ。
Deciphering old manuscripts requires specialized knowledge.