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
機器
きき (kiki)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "equipment" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 設備 and 機器.
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, 機器 (きき (kiki)) maps to "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。. 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 "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.
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.". "機器" represents "equipment, machinery, device".