Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Old" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "old", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
ふるい
ふるい (furui)
N5 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
昔
むかし (mukashi)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "old" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between ふるい and 昔.
In Japanese, ふるい (ふるい (furui)) is typically associated with "old (not for people)" (Syllabus Level: N5) and represents An い-adjective. Used for objects, buildings, or things that have existed for a long time. Not used for the age of people. Opposite of 新しい.
On the other hand, 昔 (むかし (mukashi)) maps to "old times, ancient times, a long time ago" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents Noun or adverb. Refers to a past period, often distant. Commonly used to begin traditional stories. A literal translation of "old" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "ふるい"
このカメラはとてもふるいです。
This camera is very old.
Bilingual Context for "昔"
昔々、おじいさんとおばあさんがいました。
Once upon a time, there was an old man and an old woman.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "このカメラはとても ＿＿＿ です。" (Meaning: "This camera is very old.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "ふるい" fits here because it means "old (not for people)" in the context of: "This camera is very old.". "昔" represents "old times, ancient times, a long time ago".