Translation guide
The English word "original" can express several distinct ideas: something that is the first of its kind, something that is not a copy, a creative work that is the source for adaptations, or a person with unique ideas. This guide helps you choose the right Japanese expression for each meaning.
You want to say that something is the real thing, not a reproduction or imitation.
The most common and natural way to say something is genuine or authentic. Works for objects, art, documents, etc.
これは本物のダイヤモンドですか。
Is this a real diamond?
その絵は本物ですか、それともコピーですか。
Is that painting an original, or a copy?
A loanword from English, often used for creative works, designs, or products to emphasize they are not copies. Can sound slightly more technical or commercial.
このデザインは完全にオリジナルです。
This design is completely original.
Specifically refers to the original work (novel, manga, etc.) that an adaptation is based on. Not for general authenticity.
この映画は原作に忠実です。
This movie is faithful to the original work.
You want to refer to the first version of something, before any changes or copies.
Simply means 'first' or 'initial'. Use this when you mean the earliest version or instance.
これが最初の計画でした。
This was the original plan.
最初のアイデアはもっとシンプルでした。
The original idea was much simpler.
Means 'original' in the sense of 'former' or 'as it was before'. Often used for states, conditions, or versions.
元の状態に戻してください。
Please restore it to its original condition.
元の文書はどこですか。
Where is the original document?
Refers to the original form, prototype, or archetype. Often used in technical, artistic, or historical contexts.
You are talking about the original novel, manga, film, etc. that an adaptation is based on.
The standard term for the original work in any medium. Very common when discussing adaptations.
アニメの原作は漫画です。
The original source of the anime is a manga.
原作を読んでから映画を見ました。
I read the original work before watching the movie.
Often used in entertainment to refer to the original version, especially when comparing to a remake or adaptation.
You want to describe a person, idea, or creation as fresh, innovative, and not derivative.
Means 'creative' or 'original' in the sense of showing independent thought. Often used for ideas, art, or people.
彼は独創的な考え方をする。
He has an original way of thinking.
その作品はとても独創的だ。
That work is very original.
A common phrase meaning 'has originality'. Slightly more casual and often used in everyday conversation.
彼女のファッションはいつもオリジナリティがある。
Her fashion always has originality.
Means 'unique' or 'one's own'. Emphasizes that something is not borrowed but developed independently.
彼は独自のスタイルを確立した。
He established his own original style.
本物 (honmono) is the safest choice for 'genuine' or 'real'. オリジナル (orijinaru) is a loanword often used for creative works or commercial products, but can sound slightly less natural in everyday conversation about authenticity. For example, 'Is this bag real?' is more naturally このかばんは本物ですか, not オリジナルですか.
Saying 彼はオリジナルだ (He is original) can be understood but sounds awkward. Use 独創的 (dokusouteki) or 独自の (dokuji no) instead.
これはピカソの本物の絵です。
This is an original painting by Picasso.
最初の計画は8時に出発することでした。
The original plan was to leave at 8.
私はその曲のオリジナル版のほうが好きです。
I prefer the original version of the song.
この建物は原型をとどめていない。
This building no longer retains its original form.
オリジナル版とリメイク版、どちらが好きですか。
Which do you prefer, the original version or the remake?