Translation guide
A relic is an object surviving from an earlier time, often with historical or sentimental value. In Japanese, different words are used depending on whether it's a historical artifact, a religious relic, a personal keepsake, or a remnant of the past.
An object from the past, especially one of historical interest, such as an archaeological find or museum piece.
General term for relics or remains from the past, often used for archaeological artifacts.
This museum displays relics from ancient Egypt.
Items left behind by a deceased person, often with historical or personal significance.
Valuable letters were found among his relics.
Cultural property or heritage item; often used for officially designated relics.
This temple is designated as an important cultural relic.
An object of religious veneration, especially a part of a saint's body or belongings.
An object kept for sentimental reasons, reminding one of a person or past event.
Something that has survived from the past but is now outdated or obsolete, often used figuratively.
A trace or vestige of something past; often used for customs or atmospheres that linger.
This town has relics of its old appearance.
Can also be used figuratively for outdated things or ideas.
Literally 'something behind the times'; a relic in the sense of being outdated.
This machine is a relic.
遺物 (いぶつ) is for historical or archaeological relics, while 形見 (かたみ) is a personal keepsake from someone who has passed away. Using 遺物 for a grandmother's ring would sound impersonal and cold.
Grandmother's keepsake ring (natural) / Grandmother's relic ring (unnatural)
The English word 'relic' covers a wide range of meanings. Directly translating it as 遺物 may not fit contexts like personal mementos or outdated technology. Choose the word that matches the specific nuance.
仏舎利を納めた塔が建立された。
A stupa was built to enshrine the Buddha's relics.
This ticket is a relic from our trip.
That law is a relic of the past.