Meaning

Primary

Secondhand

Alternative

Used

Word Type

noun, の adjective

Explanation

The combination of kanji doesn't make perfect sense, but it's alright. Take something that's middle old and you have something that's used or secondhand. It's not 100% old yet... it's still in the middle, meaning you can give it to someone else to use, like your younger siblings.

Reading

ちゅうこ
Kyoko
(Tokyo accent, female)
Kenichi
(Tokyo accent, male)

Explanation

This is a jukugo word, which usually means on'yomi readings from the kanji. If you know the readings of your kanji you'll know how to read this as well.

Context

Patterns of Use

  • 中古〜
  • 中古の〜

Common Word Combinations

  • 中古マンション
    secondhand apartments
    中古パソコン
    used computers
    中古バイク
    secondhand motorcycles
  • 中古のマンション
    secondhand apartments
    中古のゲーム
    used games
    中古のパソコン
    used computers

Context Sentences

中古ですが、ベンツをかいました。

It’s used, but I bought a Benz.

このあたりは、中古ショップがじゅうじつしています。

There are a lot of secondhand stores in this area.

中古のかぐのような人とはけっこんしたくない。

I don’t want to get married to someone who is like a piece of used furniture.

Kanji Composition