Translation guide
A toolbox is a container for storing and carrying tools. In Japanese, the most common word is 道具箱 (どうぐばこ), but there are other terms depending on the type of tools and context.
A box or case for storing and carrying a set of tools, typically used by carpenters, mechanics, or DIY enthusiasts.
The most common and general term for a toolbox. It literally means 'tool box' and can refer to any container for tools.
道具箱からハンマーを取り出した。
I took a hammer out of the toolbox.
彼は道具箱を整理している。
He is organizing his toolbox.
Similar to 道具箱, but 工具 specifically refers to hand tools or implements. Often used interchangeably, though 工具箱 may imply a more specialized set of tools.
工具箱を車に積んだ。
I loaded the toolbox into the car.
A small, often portable box or case for tools, sometimes with compartments.
A loanword from English, commonly used for modern, often plastic or metal portable toolboxes. It has a slightly more modern or commercial feel.
新しいツールボックスを買った。
I bought a new toolbox.
Literally 'tool container'. A more casual or descriptive term, not as common as 道具箱.
その道具入れは小さいけど便利だ。
That toolbox is small but handy.
A large, often stationary storage unit with multiple drawers for tools, typically found in workshops or garages.
Refers to a tool cabinet or chest, often with drawers. Used in professional or serious hobbyist settings.
工場には大きな工具キャビネットがある。
There is a large tool cabinet in the factory.
Loanword for 'tool chest', often used for high-end or imported tool storage systems.
ツールチェストを注文した。
I ordered a tool chest.
A box or case for a specific set of items, not necessarily mechanical tools.
The suffix 箱 (ばこ) can be attached to many nouns to mean 'box for ...'. For example, 裁縫箱 (さいほうばこ) for sewing box, 救急箱 (きゅうきゅうばこ) for first-aid box. This pattern is very productive.
裁縫箱から針と糸を出した。
I took a needle and thread from the sewing box.
救急箱はどこですか？
Where is the first-aid kit?
Even for specialized kits, 道具箱 can be used if the items are considered tools in a broad sense.
道具箱 (どうぐばこ) is the most general and widely understood. 工具箱 (こうぐばこ) is slightly more technical, implying hand tools. ツールボックス is a modern loanword often used for plastic or metal portable cases. In everyday conversation, 道具箱 is usually the safest choice.
You can create many 'box' words by adding 箱 (ばこ) to a noun. For example, おもちゃ箱 (toy box), 宝石箱 (jewelry box). This is a very natural way to describe containers for specific items.
もっと大きい道具箱が必要だ。
I need a bigger toolbox.
彼は道具を道具箱に入れている。
He keeps his tools in a toolbox.
釣りの道具箱を忘れた。
I forgot my fishing tackle box.