Translation guide
The English word "weapons" is a broad term covering instruments used for attack or defense. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 武器 (buki), but depending on context, more specific terms like 兵器 (heiki) for military weapons or 凶器 (kyōki) for weapons used in crimes may be more appropriate. This guide helps learners choose the right word based on meaning and situation.
The most common, everyday word for weapons of any kind, including swords, guns, etc.
The standard, neutral word for 'weapon' or 'weapons'. Can be used for anything from a knife to a nuclear bomb, but often implies a tool used in personal combat.
彼は武器を捨てた。
He threw down his weapon.
武器を持っていないか確認してください。
Please check if they are carrying any weapons.
Weapons used in warfare, such as missiles, tanks, or military-grade equipment.
Refers specifically to military weapons, armaments, or ordnance. Used in contexts like arms races, disarmament, or military technology.
その国は核兵器を開発している。
That country is developing nuclear weapons.
化学兵器の使用は禁止されている。
The use of chemical weapons is prohibited.
Can also be used for military weapons, but 兵器 is more precise. 武器 is broader and can sound less technical.
最新の武器を装備した軍隊。
An army equipped with the latest weapons.
A weapon used to commit a crime, especially a murder or assault.
Specifically a weapon used in a crime, often translated as 'murder weapon' or 'deadly weapon'. Common in news reports and legal contexts.
犯人は凶器を持って逃げた。
The suspect fled with the weapon.
凶器はまだ見つかっていない。
The weapon has not been found yet.
Can be used in criminal contexts, but 凶器 is more specific and carries a stronger connotation of a crime.
Something used as a weapon in a non-literal sense, like words, knowledge, or a strategy.
Also used figuratively, just like in English. Can refer to a skill, piece of information, or tactic used to gain an advantage.
語学力は就職活動の武器になる。
Language skills can be a weapon in job hunting.
彼の武器はその冷静さだ。
His weapon is his calmness.
武器 (buki) is the broadest term for any weapon. 兵器 (heiki) is specifically for military weapons and armaments. 凶器 (kyōki) is used for weapons involved in crimes, especially violent ones. Use 武器 when in doubt, but choose the more specific word when the context is clear.
警察は凶器を押収した。
The police seized the weapon.
その国は兵器の輸出を増やした。
That country increased its export of weapons.
凶器 implies a weapon used in a crime. Using it for a soldier's weapon or a tool for self-defense would be unnatural. Stick to 武器 or 兵器 in those cases.
He used a weapon to rob the bank.