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
老舗
しにせ (shinise)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "old" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between ふるい and 老舗.
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, 老舗 (しにせ (shinise)) maps to "old shop, long-established shop/firm" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers specifically to a business that has been operating for a long time. 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 "老舗"
この和菓子屋は創業200年の老舗だ。
This Japanese confectionery shop is a long-established business founded 200 years ago.
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.". "老舗" represents "old shop, long-established shop/firm".