Word
道具
Meaning in Englishtool, utensil, instrument
Animated kanji stroke order
Word context
What it means
道具 means a tool or instrument used to perform a task; it covers everyday utensils and more specialized equipment employed in work, crafts, sports, and daily activities.
Main meanings
- Primary meaning: tool or instrument used to perform tasks
- Equipment or gear for a specific activity, job, or craft
- Metaphorical sense: the means or instruments by which something is accomplished
How to use it
日常会話では家庭の道具を指すことが多く、専門分野では器具・工具を指す場合がある。道具を使う、道具を揃える、道具の手入れをする、などの表現で用いられる。
Variants and close terms
- 器具 (kigu) — tool or instrument
- 工具 (kōgu) — tool, implements
- 用品 (youhin) — supplies, equipment
Composition
- 道: path, way; conveys the idea of a method or approach
- 具: tool, equipment; denotes things that accompany action
Etymology
From the on'yomi readings of 道 (dō) and 具 (gu), forming a Sino-Japanese compound read as dōgu.
Origin
Origin: the concept appeared with the adoption of Chinese lexicon in classical Japan; earliest written attestations appear in Heian-era documents, with broader usage expanding through later periods.
Word class
Noun (名詞)