The Meaning of dōgu [道具] In Japanese

道具
どうぐ
Romaji: dōgu N4

What does 道具 mean?

Translation and Meaning

tool, instrument, equipment, implement, means

Definition

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.

Type

Noun (名詞)

Stroke Order

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

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.

Composition

  • 道: path, way; conveys the idea of a method or approach
  • 具: tool, equipment; denotes things that accompany action

Usage

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。
💡 Tips
道 (path) + 具 (tools) = 道具 (tools for the path): mnemonic visualize a person walking a path with a toolbox in hand to complete a task.

Variations

  • 器具 (kigu) — tool or instrument
  • 工具 (kōgu) — tool, implements
  • 用品 (youhin) — supplies, equipment

Words with the same Kanji

Example Phrases

  • 新しい 道具を 棚から 出して すぐに 使い始めた。
    atarashii dōgu o tana kara dashite, sugu ni tsukai hajimeta.
    I pulled out the new tool from the shelf and started using it.
    Lista:
    • 新しい (atarashii) – new
    • 道具を (dōgu o) – tool (object marker)
    • 棚から (tana kara) – from the shelf
    • 出して (dashite) – taking out
    • すぐに (sugu ni) – immediately
    • 使い始めた (tsukai hajimeta) – started using
    The noun 「道具」 (‘tool’) is the direct object here, modified by 新しい.
道具