中古（ちゅうこ、chuuko）
- secondhand

The Japanese word 中古, pronounced ちゅうこ (chūko), primarily means "used," "second-hand," or "pre-owned." It describes items that have been previously owned and used, as opposed to being brand new. It is commonly applied to goods such as cars, electronics, clothing, and books. It implies that the item has some degree of wear and tear, and is typically sold at a lower price than a new item. The degree of "used-ness" varies considerably.

⚫︎ 中古車 Translation: Used car ⚫︎ 中古品 Translation: Second-hand goods ⚫︎ 中古パソコン Translation: Used computer

You use 中古 to describe items that are not new. When you're buying or selling something that has been used, this word is very important. It can be used in general conversation, in advertisements, or when making a purchase. You wouldn't use it to describe something that is brand new, right from the factory. The phrase is also used in a legal or business context when referring to items of such nature.

中古 is written with the kanji 中古. The reading is ちゅうこ in hiragana. There are no other common ways to write this word. The okurigana is standard, and no variations exist.

⚫︎ 古（ふる）い (furui) - old, however, this does not always directly mean "second-hand". ⚫︎ リサイクル品 (risaikeeru-hin) - Recycled goods (sometimes) ⚫︎ ユーズド (yuuzudo) - Used (loanword)

⚫︎ 新品 (shinpinn) - brand new ⚫︎ 新古品 (shinkohin) - Like new (very little use)

この中古のカメラはとても良い状態です。 ・Translation: This used camera is in very good condition. ・Explanation: This sentence describes the condition of a camera that has been previously owned.

中古のゲームソフトを買いました。 ・Translation: I bought a second-hand game software. ・Explanation: This sentence indicates the purchase of a game software in used condition.

The word 中古 is derived from the kanji characters: 中 (chū) meaning "middle," "in," or "used," and 古 (ko) meaning "old," "used," or "ancient." Together, they describe something that is "in the middle" of its lifespan or that has been previously used.