ガジェット
gajetto[ɡa̠ʑe̞t̚to̞]
The English phrase gadget can be translated into Japanese as ガジェット (gajetto). Wiktionary also lists 小道具 (kodōgu).
Meaning: any device or machine (noun)
Ways to say it
| Japanese | Romanization (Wiktionary) | IPA |
|---|---|---|
| ガジェット | gajetto | [ɡa̠ʑe̞t̚to̞] (narrow) |
| 小道具 | kodōgu | [ko̞do̞ːɡɯ̟] (narrow) |
In modern Japanese, ガジェット is most commonly used in the context of consumer electronics, such as smartwatches or specialized computer peripherals. You may also use 電子機器 to refer specifically to electronic devices. If you are in a formal setting, you can use 機器 to refer to a gadget as equipment.
Which one should you use?
ガジェット is a loanword specifically used for electronic devices or tech-related gadgets. In contrast, the native Japanese term 小道具 refers to props or small tools rather than electronic gadgets, such as stage props in theater or small manual tools.
How do you pronounce it?
gajetto
Did you know?
- In Japanese, the term 道具 (dōgu) can also be used metaphorically to describe a person who is being used as a mere tool or instrument for someone else's gain.
- While ガジェット refers to tech, the word 道具 inside 小道具 is used in traditional Japanese arts like tea ceremonies to describe the specific utensils required for the ritual.
- In the context of electronic ガジェット, Japanese enthusiasts often use the term 'gadget' to specifically mean 'cutting-edge' or 'niche' tech rather than common appliances.
Examples in context
- 新しいガジェットですねThat's a new gadget, isn't it?
- 最新の機器を見せてくださいPlease show me the latest gadget.
- それはすごいおもちゃだねThat's an amazing gadget, isn't it?
- 新しいアイテムを買ったよI bought a new gadget!
- 新しいガジェットを買いました。Atarashii gajetto o kaimashita.I bought a new gadget.
- このガジェットはとても便利です。Kono gajetto wa totemo benri desu.This gadget is very convenient.
- 彼は面白いガジェットを集めています。Kare wa omoshiroi gajetto o atsumete imasu.He collects interesting gadgets.
Example conversation
Yui and Yota are talking about electronics at a store.
- 結衣 Yui陽太くん、このガジェットはどう思う？Yota-kun, kono gajetto wa dou omou?Yota, what do you think of this gadget?
- 陽太 Yotaデザインはいいけど、高すぎるよ。dezain wa ii kedo, takasugiru yo.The design is nice, but it's too expensive.
- 結衣 Yuiでも、すごく便利そうじゃない？demo, sugoku benrisou janai?But doesn't it look really useful?
- 陽太 Yotaそうだね。機能は最高だと思う。sou da ne. kinou wa saikou da to omou.True. I think the features are great.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “gadget” translations and entries ガジェット, 小道具, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
