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
装備
そうび (sōbi)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "equipment" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 機器 and 装備.
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, 装備 (そうび (sōbi)) maps to "equipment, outfit, gear" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to the tools, clothing, or other items needed for a specific activity or purpose, often for safety, performance, or preparedness. It can also be used as a verb 装備する. 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 "装備"
登山には適切な装備が必要です。
Proper equipment is necessary for mountain climbing.
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.". "装備" represents "equipment, outfit, gear".