Translation and Meaning of: 文房具 - bunbougu

The word 「文房具」 (bunbougu) refers to stationery items in general in the Japanese language. It is composed of three kanji: 「文」 (bun), which means "writing" or "text"; 「房」 (bou), which refers to "room" or "chamber"; and 「具」 (gu), which means "tool" or "equipment." The combination of these characters alludes to tools or equipment used in a writing or study-related environment.

Historically, the origin of the word 「文房具」 dates back to Chinese civilization, where there was the concept of the "four treasures of the study" (文房四宝, bāo wénfáng sì bǎo), referring to the brush, paper, ink, and inkstone. This concept was later assimilated by Japanese culture, evolving over time to include a broader variety of items necessary for writing and other educational activities.

In modern Japan, 「文房具」 encompasses a wide range of products, going beyond traditional writing materials to include items such as staplers, scissors, notebooks, pencils, among others. The importance of these items in Japanese culture is such that there are specialized stores and a considerable market dedicated to creative and innovative stationery products. This love for 「文房具」 is reflected not only in the wide range of products available but also in the care and quality with which they are manufactured.

It is interesting to note that in Japanese culture, stationery is not merely functional. Many are designed with an artistic and aesthetic touch, becoming collectible items for enthusiasts. This appreciation for the beauty and usability of products is a distinctive characteristic of the Japanese market. Furthermore, the emergence of global trends, such as the "bullet journal," has amplified interest in 「文房具」 for decorative and organizational purposes, making them popular outside of Japan as well.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 筆記用具 (Hikkiyōgu) - Writing instruments, such as pens and pencils.
• 書道具 (Shodōgu) - Specific tools for calligraphy, including brushes and ink.
• 事務用品 (Jimuyōhin) - General office supplies, which may include paper and folders.
• オフィス用品 (Ofisu yōhin) - Office equipment and materials, covering a variety of products.

文房具

Romaji: bunbougu
Kana: ぶんぼうぐ
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: Stationary store

Meaning in English: stationery

Definition: A word that refers to writing utensils. pens, pencils, erasers, rulers, etc.

Example Sentences - (文房具) bunbougu

See below some example sentences:

文房具を買いに行きます。

Bunbōgu o kai ni ikimasu

I am going to buy office supplies.

I will buy stationery items.

• 文房具 - "文房具" (bunbougu)
• を - Direct Object Particle in Japanese
• 買い - The form of the verb "comprar" in Japanese is 買う (かう, kau).
• に - destination particle in Japanese
• 行きます - The polite form of the verb "to go" in Japanese is 行きます (ikimasu).