Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Equipment" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "equipment", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
設備
せつび (setsubi)
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 設備 and 備品.
In Japanese, 設備 (せつび (setsubi)) is typically associated with "equipment; facilities; installations" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to equipment, facilities, installations, or utility systems.
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 "設備"
このマンションは、オートロックや防犯カメラなどのセキュリティ_______が非常に充実しています。
This apartment is very well-equipped with security facilities such as auto-locks and security cameras.
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: "このマンションは、オートロックや防犯カメラなどのセキュリティ_______が非常に充実しています。" (Meaning: "This apartment is very well-equipped with security facilities such as auto-locks and security cameras.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "設備" fits here because it means "equipment; facilities; installations" in the context of: "This apartment is very well-equipped with security facilities such as auto-locks and security cameras.". "備品" represents "equipment; fixtures; articles".