Translation guide
The act of leaving an item with a pawnbroker as collateral for a loan. In Japanese, this is most commonly expressed with the noun 質入れ or the verb 質に入れる. The concept is culturally associated with 質屋 (pawnshops), which are still common in Japan.
I pawned my watch.
To describe the act of pawning something, or to say that you pawned an item.
The standard noun meaning 'pawning'. Used in formal and everyday contexts.
I pawned my watch.
The most common verb phrase for 'to pawn'. Literally 'put into pawn'.
I needed money, so I pawned my ring.
Refers to the item being pawned (the collateral).
You can't borrow money without something to pawn.
When a pawned item is forfeited because the loan wasn't repaid. Often used for items sold cheaply as a result.
This camera is a forfeited pawn item.
Pawnshops (質屋, しちや) are common and often look like small financial service stores. They are regulated and can be a quick way to get cash. The process is straightforward: bring an item, get it appraised, and receive a loan. If you don't repay with interest by a set date, the shop can sell the item.