Translation guide
Handwork refers to work done by hand, often involving skill or craftsmanship. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 手作業 (tesagyou), but other terms like 手仕事 (teshigoto) or 手工業 (shukougyou) may be used depending on context. This guide helps you choose the right expression.
Describing work done by hand, as opposed to by machine, in everyday or industrial contexts.
The most common and neutral term for manual work or handwork, used in both casual and formal settings.
この工程はすべて手作業で行われています。
This process is done entirely by hand.
手作業の方が機械より正確な場合もある。
Sometimes handwork is more precise than machines.
Often implies craftsmanship or traditional handwork, with a slightly warmer, more artisanal nuance.
祖母は手仕事が得意で、よく編み物をしている。
My grandmother is good at handwork and often knits.
Can also refer to the product of handwork, like handicrafts.
この店には美しい手仕事の品が並んでいる。
This shop displays beautiful handwork items.
Means 'handmade' and is often used for items like food, crafts, or gifts. It emphasizes the personal, non-industrial nature.
手作りのクッキーを友達にあげた。
I gave my friend some handmade cookies.
Referring to skilled handwork, often in arts, crafts, or traditional industries.
Refers to handicraft industry or manual industry, often used in economic or historical contexts.
この地域では手工業が盛んだ。
Handicraft industry is thriving in this region.
Refers to manual skill or technique, often used in medical or artistic contexts.
彼の手技は熟練している。
His manual technique is skilled.
Referring to handwork as a class or hobby, like handicrafts or manual training.
Commonly used for handicrafts, manual arts, or construction activities, especially in school settings.
小学校の工作の時間が好きだった。
I liked handwork class in elementary school.
An older term for handicrafts or manual training, still seen in some school contexts.
手作業 is the most direct and common translation for 'handwork' as manual labor or non-mechanized work. 手仕事 carries a nuance of skill, tradition, or artistry, and is often used for crafts. Use 手作業 for neutral descriptions, and 手仕事 when you want to emphasize the human touch or craftsmanship.
The English word 'handwork' is sometimes translated literally as ハンドワーク, but this is not natural Japanese. Stick to the terms in this guide.
We learned woodworking in handwork class.