Translation guide
An old handwritten document, often historical or literary. In Japanese, the most common and natural term is 古写本 (koshabon), but other words exist depending on context, such as age, form, or cultural significance.
Referring to a manuscript that is old, typically handwritten, and often of historical or literary value.
The standard term for an old manuscript, especially a hand-copied book or document from before the printing era. Neutral and widely understood.
この古写本は12世紀のものです。
This old manuscript is from the 12th century.
Refers to old documents, often official or historical records. More associated with archival materials than literary manuscripts.
古文書を解読するのは難しい。
Deciphering old manuscripts is difficult.
Generally means 'old book', but can include manuscripts in context. Less specific; often used for rare or antiquarian books.
彼は古書の収集家です。
He is a collector of old books (including manuscripts).
Emphasizing that the document is handwritten, possibly an author's original draft or a copy made by hand.
A manuscript or hand-copied book. Can be old or new, but often implies a copy made before printing. Use 古写本 for explicitly old ones.
この写本は非常に貴重です。
This manuscript is very valuable.
Manuscript in the sense of an author's draft or copy for publication. Not necessarily old; often used for modern writing.
Explicitly 'handwritten manuscript'. Used when the handwriting aspect is important, but 原稿 alone often implies handwritten in context.
手書きの原稿は読みにくい。
The handwritten manuscript is hard to read.
Referring to very old manuscripts, often from classical or ancient periods, with cultural or historical significance.
Old or classical books and manuscripts. A more literary or academic term, often used for ancient texts.
図書館には多くの古典籍が保管されている。
Many old manuscripts are kept in the library.
Specifically old scriptures or religious manuscripts. Use only for religious contexts.
この古経典は仏教のものです。
This old manuscript is a Buddhist scripture.
古写本 (koshabon) specifically means an old hand-copied book or manuscript. 古文書 (komonjo) refers to old documents, often official or historical records. 古書 (kosho) is a broader term for old books, which may include printed books and manuscripts.
古写本は手書きの古い本です。
A koshabon is an old handwritten book.
古文書は歴史的な文書です。
A komonjo is a historical document.
The phrase '古い原稿' (furui genkō) is grammatically correct but sounds unnatural as a set term. Use 古写本 or 古文書 instead for established concepts.
古い原稿を見つけた。
I found an old manuscript. (Understandable but not idiomatic as a term)
その図書館は古写本のコレクションを持っています。
The library has a collection of old manuscripts.
彼女は日本の古文書を研究しています。
She studies old Japanese manuscripts.
作家は原稿を出版社に送った。
The writer sent the manuscript to the publisher.