Translation guide
The earliest known form of Chinese writing, inscribed on animal bones or turtle shells for divination. In Japanese, it is referred to by specific terms, and understanding the cultural context is key.
Referring to the ancient Chinese writing system used on oracle bones.
The standard term for 'oracle bone script'. Literally 'shell-bone characters'. Used in academic and general contexts.
甲骨文字は漢字の最古の形態です。
Oracle bone script is the oldest form of Chinese characters.
A slightly more formal or academic term, often used in historical or linguistic contexts. Can refer to the script or the inscriptions themselves.
この甲骨文は殷王朝のものです。
This oracle bone inscription is from the Yin dynasty.
Referring to the physical bones or shells with inscriptions.
Refers to the oracle bones themselves (turtle plastrons and animal bones). Often used in compound words.
殷墟から大量の甲骨が出土した。
A large number of oracle bones were excavated from the Yin ruins.
Referring to the academic discipline of studying oracle bone script.
The study of oracle bones and their inscriptions. A specialized academic term.
彼は甲骨学の権威です。
He is an authority on oracle bone studies.
When discussing the physical artifacts, use 甲骨 (こうこつ). For the writing system, use 甲骨文字 (こうこつもじ) or 甲骨文 (こうこつぶん).