Translation guide
The English word 'counterfeit' can be an adjective, noun, or verb. This guide covers how to express the concept of something being fake, forged, or imitated with intent to deceive, as well as the act of producing such items.
Describing an object that is made to look like the real thing in order to deceive, especially money, branded goods, or official documents.
The most common and general adjective meaning 'fake' or 'counterfeit'. It directly modifies a noun.
これは偽のブランドバッグです。
This is a counterfeit brand bag.
He was arrested on suspicion of using counterfeit bills.
Specifically means 'forged' or 'counterfeited', often used for documents, money, or official items. It is the past tense of the verb 偽造する (to forge).
偽造されたパスポートが見つかった。
A counterfeit passport was found.
Means 'imitation' or 'reproduction', but can imply counterfeit when intent to deceive is clear. Often used for art or antiques.
模造の絵画が本物として売られていた。
Counterfeit paintings were being sold as genuine.
Referring to the fake object itself, such as a knockoff product or forged document.
The standard word for a fake or counterfeit item. Can be used for anything from money to luxury goods.
この指輪は偽物だと鑑定された。
This ring was appraised as a counterfeit.
市場には偽物がたくさん出回っている。
There are many counterfeits circulating in the market.
A more literary or formal term for a counterfeit, especially art, antiques, or calligraphy. Often used in the context of forgery of artistic works.
Literally 'copy product', commonly used for counterfeit branded goods like bags, watches, etc. Often used in consumer contexts.
海外でコピー商品を買ってしまった。
I ended up buying a counterfeit product overseas.
The act of making a fake version of something, especially money, documents, or signatures.
The standard verb for counterfeiting or forging official items like money, documents, or certificates.
彼はパスポートを偽造した罪で起訴された。
He was indicted for counterfeiting passports.
紙幣を偽造するのは重罪だ。
Counterfeiting banknotes is a serious crime.
Means 'to falsify' or 'to misrepresent'. Can be used for counterfeiting in a broader sense, such as faking one's identity or forging a signature.
A formal and literary verb for counterfeiting, especially art or antiques. Rarely used in everyday speech.
彼は浮世絵を贋造していた。
He was counterfeiting ukiyo-e prints.
Describing something that is not authentic or sincere, such as emotions, smiles, or identities.
Means 'false' or 'fake' in an abstract sense, often used for emotions, statements, or appearances.
彼女の笑顔は偽りのものだった。
Her smile was counterfeit (fake).
偽りの申告をするのは違法です。
Making a false declaration is illegal.
Means 'pretended' or 'sham', emphasizing outward appearance that hides the truth.
彼の親切は見せかけのものだった。
His kindness was counterfeit (a sham).
偽物 (にせもの) is the general term for any fake item, while 偽造品 (ぎぞうひん) specifically refers to forged or counterfeited items like money or documents. Use 偽物 for everyday knockoffs, and 偽造品 for serious legal contexts.
このバッグは偽物だ。
This bag is a fake.
偽造品の所持は法律で禁じられている。
Possession of counterfeit goods is prohibited by law.
English uses 'counterfeit' directly before nouns (e.g., counterfeit money). In Japanese, you must use 偽の (にせの) or 偽造された (ぎぞうされた) before the noun. Simply saying 偽 money is ungrammatical.
彼は偽札を持っているところを捕まった。
He was caught with counterfeit money.
偽札 (にせさつ) is a common abbreviation for counterfeit bills.
市場には偽物が氾濫している。
The market is flooded with counterfeit goods.
その絵は贋物と判明した。
The painting turned out to be a counterfeit.
彼は署名を偽った。
He counterfeited the signature.