Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of 'secondhand goods' is commonly expressed with words like 中古品 (ちゅうこひん) for general used items, or 古物 (こぶつ) for antiques and old items. The choice depends on context, formality, and the type of item.
Referring to secondhand goods in everyday contexts, such as electronics, cars, furniture, etc.
The most common and neutral term for secondhand goods. Used for a wide range of items.
この店は中古品を安く売っている。
This store sells secondhand goods cheaply.
中古品でも十分使える。
Even secondhand goods are perfectly usable.
Often used as a prefix or standalone noun, especially for cars, electronics, etc. Slightly more casual than 中古品.
中古のスマホを買った。
I bought a used smartphone.
中古車を探している。
I'm looking for a used car.
Refers to old or antique items, often with historical value. Used in legal contexts (古物商). Not for everyday used goods.
彼は古物の収集家だ。
He is a collector of antiques.
When talking about secondhand clothes, there are specific terms.
The standard term for used clothing. Commonly seen in thrift stores.
古着屋でジャケットを見つけた。
I found a jacket at a used clothing store.
For used books, there is a specific term.
Used books. Often seen in 古本屋 (secondhand bookstore).
古本をネットで売った。
I sold used books online.
Emphasizing the reuse aspect, often in environmental contexts.
Recycled goods. Focuses on the recycling process rather than just being secondhand.
リサイクル品を活用する。
Make use of recycled goods.
Reused goods. Emphasizes direct reuse without major processing.
リユース品の市場が拡大している。
The market for reused goods is expanding.
中古 (ちゅうこ) is for general used items, while 古物 (こぶつ) implies older, often antique items and is used in legal contexts like 古物商 (secondhand dealer license).
中古のパソコンを買うのは普通だが、古物のパソコンとは言わない。
Buying a used PC is normal, but you wouldn't call it an antique PC.
中古 can be attached to many nouns to mean 'used': 中古車 (used car), 中古マンション (used apartment), 中古ゲーム (used game). This is very productive.