画材
gazai
The English phrase "art supplies" is translated into Japanese as 画材 (gazai).
The term 画材 is used broadly to cover everything from brushes and paints to sketchbooks and pencils.
How do you pronounce it?
gazai
Did you know?
- The first character of 画材 is also used as a counter for 'frames' or 'scenes' in manga and film. This connects the 'art' in 'art supplies' directly to the concept of a single visual panel.
- In Japan, you will find specialized stores called 画材店 that sell only these supplies. Unlike in many English-speaking countries where art tools are bought at general craft stores, these shops often cater exclusively to professional fine artists.
- The character 材 in 画材 does not just mean 'material', but carries the nuance of 'raw timber' or 'resource', implying the supplies are the essential building blocks of the work.
Examples in context
- 新しい画材を買いたい。Atarashii gazai o kaitai.I want to buy new art supplies.
- 画材の準備はできましたか？Gazai no junbi wa dekimashita ka?Are the art supplies ready?
- この画材はとても高いです。Kono gazai wa totemo takai desu.These art supplies are very expensive.
Example conversation
Kenta and Misaki are at an art store.
- 美咲 Misaki健太くん、画材は全部そろった？Kenta-kun, gazai wa zenbu sorotta?Kenta, do you have all the art supplies?
- 健太 Kentaあと筆だけ買えばいいよ。Ato fude dake kaeba ii yo.I just need to buy a brush.
- 美咲 Misakiあそこに筆があるよ。Asoko ni fude ga aru yo.The brushes are over there.
- 健太 Kentaありがとう。すぐに行くね。Arigatou. Sugu ni iku ne.Thanks. I'll go right now.
