Translation guide
In Japanese, the word for 'antique' depends on whether you're talking about Western-style antiques, traditional Japanese art/antiques, or simply old objects. The most common word is アンティーク, a loanword used for Western-style antiques and vintage items. For traditional Japanese antiques, 骨董品 (こっとうひん) is standard. In casual contexts, 古物 (こぶつ) or 古道具 (ふるどうぐ) may be used for old/secondhand goods.
Referring to old, valuable items of Western origin, often in shops or collections.
Loanword from English, widely used for Western antiques. Can also be used as a noun or na-adjective.
この店はアンティーク家具を扱っています。
This shop deals in antique furniture.
祖母からアンティークの指輪をもらいました。
I received an antique ring from my grandmother.
Literally 'old tool item', but can refer to any antique, including Western ones. Slightly more formal or traditional feel.
彼は骨董品の収集が趣味です。
His hobby is collecting antiques.
Referring specifically to traditional Japanese antiques, often with cultural or historical value.
The standard term for Japanese antiques. Often used in the context of art, tea ceremony utensils, or old crafts.
この骨董品は江戸時代のものです。
This antique is from the Edo period.
骨董市で古い茶碗を見つけました。
I found an old tea bowl at the antique market.
Refers to antique art objects, especially fine art. Used in galleries or museums.
Describing something that is simply old, used, or from a past era, without implying high value.
General term for old or used items. Often used in legal contexts (古物商 = secondhand dealer).
この店は古物を売っています。
This shop sells secondhand goods.
Specifically old tools or household items, often with a rustic or vintage feel.
Literally 'item of an era', used for things that are old and possibly valuable, but not necessarily fine antiques.
Describing something as being antique, often in a decorative or collectible sense.
Use アンティーク as a na-adjective with の to modify a noun. Most natural for Western antiques.
アンティークの家具が好きです。
I like antique furniture.
Using 骨董 as a noun with の to mean 'antique'. Slightly more traditional.
骨董の皿を集めています。
I collect antique plates.
アンティーク is the default for Western-style antiques (furniture, jewelry, clothing). 骨董品 is broader and includes Japanese antiques, but can sound more formal or traditional. In casual conversation, アンティーク is often used even for Japanese items if the speaker wants a modern, stylish nuance.
このアンティークの着物は素敵ですね。
This antique kimono is lovely, isn't it?
古い simply means 'old' and does not imply value or collectibility. Saying 古い家具 (furui kagu) means 'old furniture', which could be worn out or shabby, not necessarily antique.
この家具は古いです。
This furniture is old. (not necessarily antique)
I went to an exhibition of antique art.
古道具屋で面白いランプを見つけた。
I found an interesting lamp at the secondhand shop.
This watch is an antique, but it still works.