Translation guide
In Japanese, the word for 'purse' depends on what you mean: a small coin purse, a wallet, a handbag, or prize money. The most common everyday word is 財布 (さいふ), which covers wallets and small purses for money.
A small container for carrying cash, cards, and coins, typically kept in a pocket or bag.
The most common and general word for a wallet or small purse used to carry money and cards. Can be used for both men's and women's items.
I forgot my wallet.
I bought a new wallet.
Specifically a coin purse. Use this when you want to emphasize that it's only for coins.
My coin purse is stuffed.
A billfold or wallet specifically for paper money. Less common in daily conversation.
I went out with just my billfold.
A medium-sized bag carried by women, often with a strap, used to hold personal items.
The standard loanword for a woman's handbag. Widely understood.
She took her keys out of her handbag.
A general word for 'bag' that often implies a handbag in context. More casual than ハンドバッグ.
Literally 'hand-carried', refers to a handbag or tote without a shoulder strap. Somewhat old-fashioned.
The amount of money awarded to the winner of a competition, especially in boxing or horse racing.
A small bag closed with a drawstring, used for carrying small items or as a traditional accessory.
A traditional drawstring pouch. Often used for carrying small items like coins or as a lunch bag.
I put some snacks in the drawstring pouch.
A purse with a metal clasp frame, often associated with traditional or retro styles. Literally 'toad's mouth'.
財布 (さいふ) is a wallet or small purse for money, while ハンドバッグ is a larger handbag for carrying various personal items. If you say 'I lost my purse' meaning your wallet, use 財布. If you mean a handbag, use ハンドバッグ or バッグ.
I dropped my wallet.
I left my handbag on the train.
The loanword パース (pāsu) is rarely used and may not be understood. It can refer to a specific style of handbag, but it's safer to use 財布 or ハンドバッグ depending on context.
I need to buy a new purse; this one is falling apart.
If 'purse' means a wallet.
Where did you buy this bag?
祖母はいつも手提げを持っている。
My grandmother always carries a handbag.
His fight purse was the highest ever.
祖母のがま口財布はアンティークだ。
My grandmother's clasp purse is an antique.