Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Equipment" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "equipment", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
機器
きき (kiki)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
備品
びひん (bihin)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "equipment" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 機器 and 備品.
In Japanese, 機器 (きき (kiki)) is typically associated with "equipment, machinery, device" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents 様々な種類の装置や機械、器具の総称です。特に電気や電子を使ったものを指すことが多いですが、医療機器や精密機器など広い範囲で使われます。.
On the other hand, 備品 (びひん (bihin)) maps to "equipment; fixtures; articles" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Refers to movable assets or articles used for business/office, such as furniture, machines, or tools, that are not consumed quickly.. A literal translation of "equipment" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "機器"
この研究所には最新の医療機器が導入されている。
This research institute has introduced the latest medical equipment.
Bilingual Context for "備品"
オフィスには新しい備品が多数導入された。
Many new pieces of equipment were introduced in the office.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "この研究所には最新の医療 ＿＿＿ が導入されている。" (Meaning: "This research institute has introduced the latest medical equipment.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "機器" fits here because it means "equipment, machinery, device" in the context of: "This research institute has introduced the latest medical equipment.". "備品" represents "equipment; fixtures; articles".