Translation guide
The English word 'furnishings' refers to furniture, curtains, carpets, and other decorative items in a room. In Japanese, there is no single word that covers exactly the same range. The closest terms are 家具 (furniture) and 調度品 (furnishings/fixtures), but they are used differently. This guide helps you choose the right expression depending on what you mean.
When you mean tables, chairs, beds, sofas, shelves, etc.
The most common word for furniture. It covers movable items like tables, chairs, beds, and storage units. It does not usually include curtains, carpets, or small decorative objects.
新しい家具を買いました。
I bought new furniture.
この部屋には家具が少ないですね。
There isn't much furniture in this room, is there?
A more formal word for furnishings, including furniture and sometimes decorative items like vases or lamps. Often used in contexts like hotel rooms or traditional Japanese interiors. Not used in everyday conversation about buying a sofa.
ホテルの部屋には高級な調度品が揃えてあります。
The hotel room is furnished with high-quality furnishings.
When you specifically mean curtains, carpets, cushions, and other fabric-based items.
Japanese does not have a common umbrella term like 'soft furnishings'. Instead, name the items: カーテン (curtains), じゅうたん/カーペット (carpet/rug), クッション (cushions), 寝具 (bedding).
カーテンとじゅうたんを新しくしました。
I replaced the curtains and carpet.
クッションをソファに置きました。
I put cushions on the sofa.
Borrowed from English 'interior', this word often refers to interior decoration, including soft furnishings and decorative items. It is used in phrases like インテリアショップ (interior shop). However, it is broader than 'furnishings' and can include lighting, wall decor, etc.
インテリアにこだわっています。
I'm particular about interior decoration.
When you mean everything needed to furnish a room, including furniture, curtains, and sometimes appliances.
A natural way to say 'furniture, curtains, and so on'. It lists the main categories without trying to find a single word.
新居に必要な家具やカーテンなどを揃えました。
I got all the necessary furnishings for the new house.
Means 'equipment' or 'fixtures' and can include furnishings in a rental property or office context. It is not used for personal home furnishings.
賃貸物件の備品リストを確認してください。
Please check the list of furnishings/fixtures for the rental property.
家具 (kagu) only refers to furniture like tables and chairs. If you say 家具を買った when you bought curtains, it will sound strange. Use specific words or インテリア instead.
If you are looking for a furnished apartment, the term is 家具付き (かぐつき). This usually means basic furniture like a bed, table, and chairs, but not necessarily curtains or small appliances. Always check what is included.