筆箱（ふでばこ、fudebako）
- pencil case

The word 筆箱 (ふでばこ, *fudebako*) refers to a pencil case or a pen case. It's a container used to store writing implements such as pencils, pens, erasers, rulers, and other small stationery items. It's commonly used by students and anyone who needs to carry their writing supplies. It can also be called a pencil box.

⚫︎ 新しい筆箱を買いました。 Translation: I bought a new pencil case. ⚫︎ 筆箱の中に何がありますか？ Translation: What's inside your pencil case? ⚫︎ この筆箱はデザインが可愛いですね。 Translation: This pencil case has a cute design.

This word is used in everyday conversation, especially when talking about school, office supplies, or stationery. You would use it to refer to the object itself or to describe its contents. It's appropriate in both formal and informal contexts.

⚫︎ This word is typically written with the kanji 筆 (fude - brush, writing) and 箱 (hako - box, case): 筆箱 ⚫︎ The reading is ふでばこ (fudebako) in hiragana. ⚫︎ There are no other common ways to write this word. The okurigana is standard.

⚫︎ There aren't many direct synonyms for 筆箱, as it is a very specific term. However, you could use more general terms like: ⚫︎ ペンケース (*pen keesu*) - pen case (usually smaller, for pens) ⚫︎ 文房具入れ (*bunbougu ire*) - stationery container

There are no direct antonyms for 筆箱, as it refers to a physical object.

私は自分の筆箱に色々なペンと鉛筆を入れています。 ・Translation: I keep various pens and pencils in my pencil case. ・Explanation: This sentence describes the contents of the speaker's pencil case.

宿題を始める前に、筆箱を机の上に置きました。 ・Translation: I put my pencil case on the desk before starting my homework. ・Explanation: This sentence explains the action before starting the homework.

The word is formed from the combination of 筆 (*fude*), which originally referred to a writing brush, and 箱 (*hako*), meaning a box or container. Therefore, 筆箱 originally described a box specifically for holding writing brushes. Later, it was used to store other writing instruments as well.