English–Japanese

“classics” in Japanese

Japanese

Pronunciation

Romajikoten

Example

古典を読むのは楽しいです。ko ten o yo mu no wa tano shi i de su

Reading the classics is fun.

Illustration for 古典 (classics)

How to say “classics” in Japanese

“Classics” in Japanese is 古典 (koten).

Refers to works from an earlier age that remain important enough to be read, studied, or admired across generations.

Full entry for 古典: usage tips, similar words and word origin

Example sentences with 古典

図書館で古典の解説書を借りました。to sho kan de ko ten no kai setsu sho o ka ri ma shi ta

I borrowed a guide to the classics from the library.

Tips for using 古典

  • In English, the classics often means highly valued works from ancient Greece and Rome, while 古典 (koten) can include older Japanese literature and other traditional works.

“classics” in other languages