Translation guide
The English word "ornament" can refer to a decorative object, an adornment, or the act of decorating. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 飾り (kazari), but the best choice depends on context: whether it's a physical decoration, jewelry, a Christmas ornament, or a metaphorical embellishment.
A physical item used to make something look more attractive, such as a knick-knack, a piece of decor, or an embellishment on clothing.
The most common and versatile word for a decoration or ornament. Can be used for objects, architectural details, and even figurative embellishments.
棚に小さな飾りを置いた。
I put a small ornament on the shelf.
このドレスには飾りが多すぎる。
This dress has too many ornaments.
A more formal term for decorative articles or ornaments, often used for interior decor, accessories, or crafted items.
この店では様々な装飾品を販売しています。
This store sells various ornaments.
A loanword from English, primarily used for Christmas tree ornaments or specific decorative items in a Western context.
クリスマスツリーにオーナメントを飾った。
We decorated the Christmas tree with ornaments.
An item worn for decoration, such as a necklace, bracelet, or brooch.
Refers to personal accessories and jewelry. It's the standard term for items like necklaces, rings, and bracelets.
彼女は美しい装身具を身につけていた。
She was wearing beautiful ornaments.
A specific decorative item hung on a Christmas tree.
The most natural way to say "Christmas ornament" in Japanese. Literally "Christmas decoration."
子供たちとクリスマスの飾りを作った。
I made Christmas ornaments with the kids.
Specifically used for Christmas tree ornaments, often in the context of Western-style decorations.
ツリーに新しいオーナメントを追加した。
I added new ornaments to the tree.
Decorative elements on buildings, furniture, or in art, such as carvings, moldings, or inlays.
Refers to ornamentation as a concept or the act of decorating, especially in architecture, art, and design. Can also mean the decorative elements themselves.
この建物には美しい装飾が施されている。
This building is adorned with beautiful ornaments.
バロック様式は過剰な装飾で知られている。
Baroque style is known for its excessive ornamentation.
Also used for architectural details, but more casual than 装飾.
Something that adds beauty or interest but is not essential, such as rhetorical flourishes or unnecessary details.
Can be used metaphorically for anything that is merely decorative or non-essential.
彼の話には飾りが多すぎる。
His story has too many ornaments (embellishments).
Means ostentation or vain ornamentation, often with a negative connotation of being showy or pretentious.
The loanword オーナメント is mainly for Christmas tree ornaments. Using it for general decorations can sound unnatural. Stick to 飾り or 装飾品 for most contexts.
飾り is the everyday word for a decoration or ornament. 装飾 is more formal and often refers to the act or style of ornamentation, especially in art and architecture.
彼女はアンティークの装飾品を集めている。
She collects antique ornaments.
部屋は飾りでいっぱいだった。
The room was filled with ornaments.
A common loanword for accessories, including jewelry. Slightly more casual than 装身具.
このアクセサリーは手作りです。
This ornament is handmade.
There are plaster ornaments on the ceiling.
His writing is full of empty ornaments.