Nookipedia talk:Project Items/Updating foreign item names

Update the names of some of the Japanese-exclusive items
There are 110 items from, , and that do not have official translations since they do not appear in  (see Category:Items with no English localization). Nookipedia and the ACGC Spreadsheet are currently using the most literal possible translations. However, and I were reviewing some of the original community translation choices in the spreadsheets server, and we feel that it would make sense to tweak some of these literal translations into alternate but equally valid translations that reflect the item's localized name in later game entries.

The items in Category:Items with no English localization can be generalized into 4 groups:
 * 1) The item reappears in a later game entry. Its translation on Nookipedia is different from a later game entry. (46 items)
 * 2) The item reappears in a later game entry. Its translation on Nookipedia is already identical to its name in a later game entry. (31 items)
 * 3) The item does not reappear in a later game entry. (27 items)
 * 4) The item does not exactly fit in the previous 3 groups due to major changes with the Japanese name/design in later game entries. (6 items)

For this discussion, only group 1 will be addressed. Group 2 does not need to be addressed. Groups 3 and 4 may be worth reviewing at a later date, but they will not be reviewed right now. (See the next section for a list of items that will not be addressed in this discussion.) Below are the 46 items that could have their names updated. Chubby Bub is the author of many of the item tables, along with some of the explanations involving the proposed item name changes. I've added my vote underneath each item, and Chubby Bub plans to do so when this discussion is published. Feel free to add your opinion underneath any item, or leave a general comment underneath "Discussion." HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

Item #1: alcove → tokonoma
The literal translation of this item is "alcove" (とこのま, ). While "alcove" is not an inaccurate translation, "tokonoma" is an accepted encyclopedic term and would make for an overall better translation that matches the localized name in later game entries. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

The current name is fine. Normally I would support changing the name to the localized one, but the current name already happens to match the unused internal name. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

I think tokonoma is a better name because it usually is a specific type of Japanese alcove; also, I think that matching the later name would be more useful than the unused internal one. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #2: apple cardboard → apple cardboard box
林檎の段ボール (りんごのダンボール, ringo no danbōru) literally translates to "apple (corrugated) cardboard." The Japanese word for "cardboard box" is typically (danbōru bako), rather than 段ボール (danbōru), though it is understood that danbōru can be used as an abbreviation for danbōru bako. Visually, the item looks like a cardboard box, although the original Japanese name does not specify the "box" part. The localization does include the "box" part for clarity. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

"Cardboard box" is a better name than simply "cardboard," because it is more specific in describing the identity of the item. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

Agreed, "apple cardboard" is nonsense and the meaning of ダンボール here is cardboard box. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #3: mandarin cardboard → mandarin cardboard box, tangerine cardboard (box), or orange cardboard (box)
(The item in question is in row 1; row 2 is showcased for comparison since it has a similar Japanese name.) 蜜柑の段ボール (みかんのダンボール, mikan no danbōru) literally translates to "mikan (corrugated) cardboard." The Japanese word for "cardboard box" is typically (danbōru bako), rather than 段ボール (danbōru), though it is understood that danbōru can be used as an abbreviation for danbōru bako. Visually, the item looks like a cardboard box, although the original Japanese name does not specify the "box" part. The localization does include the "box" part for clarity.

There is a gray area when it comes to translating the first part of the name, みかん (mikan). "" can be translated as several things, including "mandarin (orange)," "tangerine," or "orange." Mandarins and tangerines are types of oranges, and mandarins and tangerines are almost identical fruits with a very slight difference. Of small note, the fruit changed from mikan to orange between and  (in the Japanese versions only); still, the fruit of the  item is a mikan. Tangerines and mandarins are slightly different fruits from the fruit generically referred to as "oranges," which the localization fails to capture by simply calling the item the "Orange" variant. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

Between "mandarin cardboard box," "tangerine cardboard (box)," and "orange cardboard (box)," I vote for "tangerine cardboard box." To be honest, I'm a bit biased, because when I first learned the word "mikan," I was taught that it meant "tangerine." But as of writing this comment, when I googled the translations for "mikan," the majority of the results seem to be "mandarin (orange)." Anyways, I still feel that "tangerine" is the best choice of the three, because it avoids any confusion that could be associated with the Mandarin Chinese dialect, and orange as a color of the rainbow. Either way, I think it is better to be slightly more accurate in choosing either "tangerine" or "mandarin," even if it contradicts the localization of "mikan" as "orange." Like I mentioned in the previous item, "cardboard box" is a better name than simply "cardboard," because it is more specific in describing the identity of the item. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

I "mandarin cardboard box". Mikan refers specifically to Citrus unshiu which is not the same as a tangerine, which is Citrus tangerina. Mikan is sometimes translated as tangerine in the context of the food because of their similarities, but this is inaccurate. (Technically the English name for this variety of citrus is "Satsuma".) But in any case both satsumas and tangerines are types of mandarin oranges, so I think that is the best name. I may or may not have spent a fair amount of time researching because of this. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #4: spring championship pennant → spring champion's pennant
The literal translation of this item is "spring championship pennant" (はるのゆうしょうき, haru no yūshouki), sharing its base name, yūshouki (ゆうしょうき) with the item. However, the localization opts to translate yūshouki as "champion's pennant" rather than as "championship pennant." HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

The current name sounds fine, and the new name slightly changes the original meaning. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

for the same reason as HylianAngel. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #5: autumn championship pennant → fall championship pennant, fall champion's pennant, or autumn champion's pennant
あきのゆうしょうき (aki no yūshouki) literally translates to either "fall championship pennant" or "autumn championship pennant." This item should technically have "fall" in its name rather than "autumn" due to the community vote in Talk:Fall; if a community translation must opt between "fall" and "autumn," then it should opt for "fall," per the previous community vote. Furthermore, it is obtained from the "Fall Sports Fair." However, one thing that contradicts this naming scheme is that there is an item called in  that is similarly obtained from the Fall Sports Fair. It would make sense to continue using the "autumn" naming scheme for consistency with the localization of this similar item. Also, like mentioned in the previous item (item #4), the base name, ゆうしょうき (yūshouki), was localized as "champion's pennant" in. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

The current usage of "autumn" is fine due to the existence of the similar item in with the "autumn" naming scheme. Also, changing "championship pennant" to "champion's pennant" slightly alters the original meaning, so the change isn't needed. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

per HylianAngel. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #6: barricade → saw horse, sawhorse, or safety barrier
The Japanese item name, "barricade" (バリケード, barikēdo), has been consistent throughout all entries, but its design changed at the same time the item was localized in the English version of. Its design reverted back to its original design in. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

As much as I would like to use one of the localized names in this scenario, I think it is better to leave the name unchanged, since all 3 localizations change the meaning of the original Japanese name. Plus, the current name happens to match the unused internal name. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

I also think barricade is a fine name to use here. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #7: basket goal → basketball goal, or basketball hoop
The literal translation of this item is "basket goal" (バスケットのゴール, basuketto no gōru). Typically, the word バスケットボール (basukettobōru) can be abbreviated as バスケット (basuketto) and is still understood to be the exact same word, so "basketball goal" is an equally acceptable literal translation. The item in question is never referred to as "basket goal" or "basketball goal" in English, since the commonplace terminology for it is "basketball hoop." While it doesn't match the in-game name, its typical Japanese name in real life is バスケットリング (basuketto ringu), literally "basket ring." HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

Between "basketball goal" and "basketball hoop," I vote for "basketball hoop," since "basketball hoop" matches the localized name for consistency. It's also more accurate in describing the identity of the item. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

for "basketball hoop" as well. Although it technically makes sense, "basketball goal" is not a term used in English, but it is one in Japanese used to refer to this item which is equivalently called a "basketball hoop" in English. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #8: bass boat-wrap sushi → bass boat, or bass sushi platter
The literal translation of this item is "bass boat-wrap sushi" (バスのふなもり, basu no funamori), sharing its base name, funamori (ふなもり) with the item. However, the localization opts to translation funamori as "sushi platter" rather than as "boat-wrap sushi." HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

As much as I would like to use either the localized name or unused internal name in this scenario, I think it is better to leave the name unchanged, as "boat-wrap sushi" is more specific than either of the new names. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

I agree, funamori is a specific type of sushi platter where it is served on a miniature boat. It seems this is sometimes called "boat-wrap" in English. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #9: bath chairs → spa chair(s), or bath stool(s)
お風呂のイス (おふろのイス, ofuro no isu) literally translates to "bath chair," although neither localization calls it as such, opting for "spa chair" prior to and for "bath stool" in. Although the localization calls it a singular chair, the item in question is actually a stack of multiple chairs prior to. Japanese does not make a distinction between singular and plural nouns, which is why the localization made this minor translation error prior to. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

As much as I would like to use either of the localized names in this scenario, I think it is better to leave the name unchanged, since "spa chair(s)" is not an accurate translation, and there isn't much benefit in using the "bath stool(s)" translation. The current name is technically an amalgamate of both existing localizations, so it's probably fine to leave it alone. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

per HylianAngel. "Bath chairs" is a more accurate translation. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #10: bathhouse tile floor → bath tile
お風呂場タイルの床 (おふろばタイルのゆか, ofuroba tairu no yuka) literally translates to either "bathhouse tile floor" or "bathroom tile floor." The first word, お風呂場 (おふろば, ofuroba) translates to either "bathhouse" or "bathroom," while the root of the word, 風呂 (ふろ, furo) translates to "bath." The localization opts to reduce the name to simply "bath tile." HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

As much as I would like to use the localized name in this scenario, I think it is better to leave the name unchanged. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

How about a compromise of "bathhouse tile", as was done for other "tile" floors in ? That or the current name are equally fine with me. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #11: bean-throwing set → bean set, or bean-tossing kit
豆まきセット (まめまきセット, mamemaki setto) literally translates to "bean-throwing set," "bean-scattering set," "bean-sowing set," and such. The item in is a furniture rather than a tool like in  and, and it has a slightly different design, with the red oni mask as decoration. However, the and  items have identical Japanese names, which is worth taking into consideration, since  provides a true localization for the item in question. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

The current name is fine and is already pretty similar to the unused internal name. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

While "scattering" is technically a more accurate translation, mamemaki is often called "bean throwing". I also think it's fine. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Items #12 and #13: beckoning (black) cat → lucky (black) cat
In Japanese, these are called , which literally means "beckoning cat," but they are usually called "lucky cat" in English, as was done in later games.

As much as I would like to use the localized names in this scenario, I think it is better to leave the names unchanged. While the item in question does bring good luck, changing "beckoning cat" to "lucky cat" somewhat changes the original name meaning. However, I have to concede that "lucky cat" is the most common way to refer to the item. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

Alternatively, I would suggest simply calling it maneki-neko and "black maneki-neko" as they are a distinct concept and this is what the item is in the Japanese game. "Lucky cats" in the West have become slightly different conceptually and culturally, so it makes sense for a localization, but not a translation. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)
 * I'm a bit conflicted because maneki-neko are called "lucky cats" in English, but ultimately in the Japanese-only context of I think "beckoning cat" is more accurate to the intention of the item. (If we do this, I think it should be changed to "black beckoning cat" to reflect that and the word order of the Japanese name.)

Item #14: big-haul flag → big catch flag, big-catch flag, or fishing-boat flag
The literal translation of this item is "big-catch flag." can be read as either たいりょうばた (tairyou bata) or たいりょうき (tairyou ki). たいりょう (tairyou) means "big catch," while ばた (bata) and き (ki) both mean "flag" or "banner." Essentially, they are the same word in Japanese, so despite the design change, it is considered the same item. In, the first variant is described as "大漁" (tairyou), as that is the most prominent kanji on the flag. However, the localization of the first variant is "Nintenmaru - Big Catch," which includes the transliteration of some smaller kanji on the flag; the reason for the localizers doing this, despite the original Japanese variant name not including "Nintenmaru" whatsoever, was so it would have a consistent naming scheme with the other English variant names. Anyways, the localization uses both "fishing boat" and "big catch" when it comes to translating the word tairyou. While the flag is technically attached to fishing boats, "fishing boat" is a less direct translation than "big catch." HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

Between "big catch flag," "big-catch flag," and "fishing-boat flag," I vote for "big-catch flag," since "big catch" matches one of the localizations and is equally valid with the current translation, "big haul." "Big-catch flag" is grammatically preferable to "big catch flag" because "big catch" is a noun being used as an adjective to describe the flag. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

for "big-catch flag" as well. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #15: cabriole-leg bathtub → clawfoot bathtub, or claw-foot tub
猫足バスタブ (ねこあしバスタブ, nekoashi basutabu) literally translates to either "cabriole-leg bathtub" or "clawfoot bathtub." "Cabriole-leg bathtub" is never used in English. In comparison, "clawfoot bathtub" (along with "clawfoot tub") is the commonplace terminology for the item in question. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

Bewteen "clawfoot bathtub" and "claw-foot tub," I vote for "clawfoot bathtub," since it is equally as valid a name as the current name, and its nomenclature is very similar to the localized name, "claw-foot tub." HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

for "claw-foot tub" since it is also a valid translation, and it matches later games. Either proposed change is better than "cabriole" though. As a note, Japanese word for cabriole/clawfoot legs literally means "cat paw". Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #16: cracker → party popper
While the literal translation of this item is "cracker" (クラッカー, kurakkā), to my understanding, it is still acceptable to translate it as "party popper." Additionally, the for "cracker (party goods)" links to the English Wikipedia page for "party popper" in the interlanguage links section, as the items are essentially identical. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

I like that the new name matches the localized name for consistency. It's also more specific in describing the identity of the item. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

per HylianAngel. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Items #17-19: daruma → dharma
While the name daruma does come from the Sanskrit dharma (specifically ), in the context of the Japanese dolls they are almost always called daruma, even in English. Note also the certain-victory daruma (giant dharma in later games) is called so due to having the kanji 必勝 (hisshou, certain victory) on it, which is somewhat common on daruma dolls.

As much as I would like to use the localized names in this scenario, I think it is better to leave the names unchanged, since the new names are less accurate. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

Referring to these Japanese figures as "dharma" is incorrect, and to be honest, I'm surprised newer games haven't rectified this. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #20: folding screen → screen
屏風 (びょうぶ, byoubu) literally translates to "folding screen." However, the localization reduces the name to simply "screen." HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

As much as I would like to use the localized name in this scenario, I think it is better to leave the name unchanged, since the current name is more specific about the nature of the item. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

"Folding screen" is better. Arguably the item could also just be called  since that is a specific type of Japanese folding screen, but I don't think that would be very helpful. It probably can just be a note on the item page. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #21: Jōmon pottery → Jomon pottery
縄文式土器 (じょうもんしきどき, joumon shikidoki), commonly known as 縄文土器 (じょうもんしきどき, joumon doki), literally translates to "." is meant to be spelled with an "ō." However, the localized name uses a regular "o." HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

It's probably better not to change the name since the new name is less grammatically correct. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

"Jomon" is an incorrect spelling. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Items #22 and #23: drum can → drum, oil drum, or oil barrel
(The items in question are in rows 1 and 2; row 3 is showcased for comparison since it has a similar Japanese name and has appeared in for GameCube.) ドラムカン / ドラムかん (doramu kan) is the base name shared by all of these items, and it literally translates to "drum can." However, the localization opts to translate it as "drum" in games prior to, and as "oil drum" in the Oil Drum Set (ドラムかんセット). To be honest, while "drum" is not an inaccurate localization, I feel it is not the best choice, because "drum" can be confused with the instrument. However, it makes sense to use "drum" anyways to be consistent with the localization, especially since was localized in  and exists in some of the same pre- games ( and ) as ちゃいろのドラムカン and あかいドラムカン. Of note, ちゃいろ (chairo) can be translated as either "light brown" or "brown." HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

The current names are fine. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

for "red drum" and "brown drum". While ドラム is literally "drum" and カン / かん "can" (it is the kanji 缶 which is an /loanword written in kanji meaning can, pot, container, etc), the term ドラム缶 would more accurately be translated as simply "drum" since the item is not called a "drum can" in English. This also matches the counterpart in, which was translated as such, and the translations from later games. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #24: morning assembly stand → stepstool, or platform
朝礼台 (ちょうれいだい, choureidai) literally translates to "morning assembly stand." It seems that the localization and unused internal name uses generic names that are meant to make more sense to an English-speaking audience. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

It's probably better to leave the name unchanged since the current name is more specific. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

since the other names remove the context. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #25: N cube shirt → N logo shirt
(The items in question is in row 1; rows 2-4 are showcased for comparison since they have similar Japanese names.) Nキューブな服 (Nキューブなふく, N kyūbu na fuku) literally translates to "N cube clothes." There also exists a furniture item of a similar nature called Nキューブ (N kyūbu) which shares its base name with the clothing item, and it literally translates to "N cube." However, it was localized as the "N logo." Similarly, the Gキューブな服 (Gキューブなふく, G kyūbu na fuku) and Gキューブ (G kyūbu) literally translate to "G cube clothes" and "G cube" respectively, but the localization calls them the "G logo shirt" and "G logo." HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

I'm personaly conflicted. It makes extreme logical sense to update the current name to the new name, since 3 of the 4 items were localized from "cube" as "logo." Updating the name would make it much clearer that this item is linked with the other 3 items. However, I would much rather keep it as "cube" because that is more accurate than the localization. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

I feel the same conflict... I'll have to think on it, but I'd like to know if anyone else has an opinion. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #26: New Year's Eve noodles → long-life noodle, or New Year's noodles
年越し蕎麦 (としこしそば, ) is a noodle dish traditionally eaten on New Year's Eve. However, the localization translates it as "New Year's" rather than as "New Year's Eve." HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

As much as I would like to use the localized name in this scenario, I think it is better to leave the name unchanged, as "New Year's" by itself slightly misleading. The unused internal name is also not that great and probably shouldn't be used. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

I agree with your reasoning on "New Year's Eve noodles" as a translation However for the same reason as maneki-neko above and especially osechi below, I wonder if it might be better to use the actual Japanese name, toshikoshi soba. I actually would have expected to do so given they use, for example,  and not "seven-herb rice porridge", but I suppose it might be because New Year's is an international holiday. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #27: New Year's food → osechi
(おせち) is traditional Japanese New Year's food. It may make sense to leave the current name alone rather than update it to the localized name, due to the existence of the similarly-translated. However, the localized name is worth taking into consideration as its name provides a true localization for the item in question.HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

I like that the new name matches the localization and unused internal name for consistency. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

Osechi is New Year's food, but unlike toshikoshi soba (see above) that's not what it even means. And once again, as a uniquely Japanese item, I think that name is better. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #28: pail → garbage pail
(The items in question is in row 1; rows 2 and 3 are showcased for comparison since they have similar Japanese names.) The literal translation of this item is "pail" (ペール, pēru). Visually, the item looks like a garbage pail, although the original Japanese name does not specify the "garbage" part. The localization does include the "garbage" part. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

"Garbage pail" is a better name, because it is more specific in describing the identity of the item. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

per HylianAngel. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #29: Paulownia dresser → dresser, Paulownia/paulownia closet, or empress-tree-wood dresser
The name of this item prior to is 桐箪笥 (きりだんす, kiri dansu), which literally translates to "Paulownia dresser." is a genus of hardwood tree in Asia. For some reason, the pre- localization calls it a "closet" instead of a "dresser"; it's not really a closet, since you can't hang clothes in this item. However, in, the item's Japanese name slightly changes and becomes 和箪笥 (わだんす, wa dansu), which literally translates to "Japanese dresser," and the 桐 (kiri) part of the name is moved to the variant. While the localization now properly describes the item as a "dresser," it simultaneously alters the translation of "Paulownia" to "Empress-tree wood." "" is a very specific species of Paulownia, and 桐 (kiri) can technically refer to either "Paulownia" or "Paulownia tomentosa." Other names for Paulownia tomentosa include "princess tree" and "fox-glove tree," although the localization specifically opts for "empress tree."

Another mild discrepancy related to the pre- localized name involves "Paulownia" being lowercase rather than uppercase. As "Paulownia" is a genus, it should remain uppercase. However, it is possible that some users may want this page moved to the exact localized name, "paulownia closet," rather than "Paulownia closet" for grammar correctness, and this will affect the text within the page's prose (although it has no effective impact on the page's title). HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

The current name is fine. The unused internal name of "dresser" is a poor choice because it fails to translate 桐 (kiri). "Paulownia/paulownia closet" is a poor choice because the item in question is a dresser, not a closet. "Paulownia" is already an accurate generic translation of 桐 (kiri) along with being the pre- localization's choice for this item's name, so there isn't really a huge need to change it to "empress-tree-wood." HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

I don't oppose your reasoning and the current name, but a  is a particular type of Japanese furniture that may be a dresser, but not necessarily. Although this item is a dresser, I think it would be better to call it "Paulownia tansu". (see also my opinions on the other tansu items) Maybe I'm sounding like a broken record on retaining some Japanese names, but the matter of what a tansu actually is is what made me realize this before the others. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #30: pinball table → pinball machine
ピンボール台 (ピンボールだい, pinbōru dai) literally translates to "pinball table," or "pinball stand." Usually the item in question is referred to as ピンボールマシン (pinbōru mashin) in Japanese, but it seems to be interchangeable with the word ピンボールだい (pinbōru dai). The item in question is never referred to as "pinball table" in English, since the commonplace terminology for it is "pinball machine." HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

"Pinball machine" is a better name, because it is more specific in describing the identity of the item. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

for the same reasons. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #31 and #32: rag chair/desk → towel chair/desk, chair/desk with rag, chair/desk with cloth, or chair/desk with towel
(The items in question are in rows 1 and 2; row 3 is showcased for comparison since it shares some of its Japanese name.) The main focus of this vote is the identity of the rag hanging on the chair and desk. ぞうきんのイス (zoukin no isu) can be translated as either "dust-cloth chair" or "cleaning-cloth chair," while ぞうきんのつくえ (zoukin no tsukue) can be translated as either "dust-cloth table" or "cleaning-cloth table." Chubby Bub has noted that, while the literal translations of these items are "cleaning-cloth chair" and "cleaning-cloth desk," these items would more aptly be referred to as "chair with a cleaning clothing" and "desk with a cleaning cloth" in English. He would personally opt for "chair with cleaning cloth" and "desk with cleaning cloth," but the names are a bit lengthy, and he suggests that either "chair with rag" and "desk with rag," or "chair with cloth" and "desk with cloth," would be acceptable. But not "cloth chair" and "cloth desk," since that would make it sound like that the items are made of cloth.

In, there is a similar item that contains this same rag: the "towel rack" (ぞうきんかけ, zoukin kake). The localization opts to translate "cleaning cloth/dust cloth" (ぞうきん, zoukin) as "towel" for this particular item. It may make sense to rename the "rag chair" and "rag desk" as "towel chair" and "towel desk" respectively due to this somewhat similar item. Furthermore, the unused internal name for also calls these items as such, "towel chair" and "towel desk."

Of note, there are items called "school chair" (がっこうのイス, gakkou no isu) and "school desk" (がっこうのつくえ, gakkou no tsukue) in, , , , and , that are technically considered to be separate from the "rag chair" and "rag desk" in and. However, aspects of the "rag chair" and "school chair" in / were combined in the "school chair" from /, while aspects of the "rag desk" and "school desk" in / were combined in the "school desk" from / (mainly the rag hanging on the object). To avoid falsely conflating the rag and non-rag items together, and since they exist in the same games in /, this vote will not make any attempt to suggest renaming the "rag chair/desk" to "school chair/desk." HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

The current names are fine. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

雑巾/ぞうきん means "cleaning cloth". It might be a rag but also is often a cloth made especially for cleaning, which is the item featured here. (The translation of "towel" does not seem quite right to me.) Because a rag is a cloth anyways, and anything like "rag chair" sounds off (at least to me), I "desk with cloth" and "chair with cloth" as the most accurate translation. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #33: red vending machine → cola machine, or red drink machine
じはんき (jihanki) literally translates to "vending machine," while あかいじはんき (akai jihanki) literally translates to "red vending machine." This means that the localization in later games introduced the word "drink" into the name, even though there isn't anything about the original name that would imply that this item is related to drinks, other than its visual appearance. Also, there are some other items that contain the word jihanki that are not necessarily drink machines, like the (キャンディのじはんき, kyandi no jihanki). Furthermore, the Vending Set (じはんきセット, jihanki setto), also known as the Vending Machine Set, doesn't include the word "drink" in it either. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

As much as I would like to use the localized name in this scenario, I think it is better to leave the name unchanged. While "drink machine" is technically more specific in describing the merchandise inside of the item, it is a less accurate translation. The unused internal name is also not that accurate of a translation. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

per HylianAngel. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #34: safety frog → lucky frog
無事蛙 (ぶじかえる, buji kaeru, often spelled as ぶじカエル) literally translates to "safety frog." They are frog figurines or amulets that are considered to bring good luck, similar to  (cat figurines which are meant to bring good luck). The reason buji kaeru are considered lucky is due to wordplay involving the name: frog (蛙, kaeru) is pronounced identically to 帰る (kaeru), "to return (home)." So a person carries a buji kaeru to ensure that they will return home safely. (Frogs are generally considered auspicious due to a few other puns involving the name.) Sometimes buji kaeru are stone statues, and they are placed near the entrances to buildings, such as temples. It would make sense to use the localization, "lucky frog," since this item is associated with bringing good luck. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

As much as I would like to use the localized name in this scenario, I think it is better to leave the name unchanged. While the item in question does bring good luck, changing "safety frog" to "lucky frog" changes the original name meaning, involving the safeness aspect that the item is meant to bring. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

I think "safe return frog" is a better translation. Though again, I somewhat feel leaving it untranslated might also work. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #35: sewing box → sturdy sewing box
The literal translation of this item is "sewing box." The localization introduced an adjective into the name for flavor, although it was not really necessary. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

I think it would be better to leave the name unchanged. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

per HylianAngel. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #36: shakōkidogū → spaceman
This item's English and Japanese name changed when the item's identity was changed from a furniture to an artwork (the ancient statue) starting in, so this discussion will only be focusing on its non-artwork incarnation. The encyclopedic term for this item is the (goggle-eyed dogū). However, the localization team presumably felt that an English-speaking audience would not be culturally up-to-speed on Jōmon pottery and translated it as "spaceman" instead. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

As much as I would like to use the localized name in this scenario, I think it is better to leave the name unchanged, since the new name is less accurate. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

"spaceman" is one of those silly things from the... idiosyncratic localization, and by all means the item should be called shakōkidogū. Don't think we should call it "goggle-eyed earthen figure" either... Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #37: staircase dresser → tansu, or stair dresser
階段箪笥 (かいだんだんす, kaidan dansu) literally translates to either "stair dresser" or "staircase dresser." The internal name, "tansu," is not an inaccurate translation, but it's a bit broad, since it simply means "dresser" by itself. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

Between "tansu" and "stair dresser," I vote for "stair dresser." It's an equally valid name as the current name, and I like that it matches the localization. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

for "stair tansu" for the same reason as "Paulownia tansu" and "tea tansu". Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #38: striped pylon → striped cone, or striped traffic cone
縞縞パイロン (しましまパイロン, shimashima pairon) literally translates to "striped pylon." While the usage of パイロン (pairon) could refer to other generic pylons, such as a corner pylon (コーナー パイロン, kōnā pairon), it's very commonly used to refer to the specific pylon known as a "traffic cone." HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

"Striped cone" is a better name, because it is more specific in describing the identity of the item. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

"Striped cone" is an equally valid translation and matches the later names. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #39: tanuki figurine → racoon figurine, or raccoon figurine
狸の置物 (たぬきのおきもの, tanuki no okimono) literally translates to "tanuki figurine." Tanuki are s. Due to the localization changing all instances of "tanuki" to "raccoon," including in the case of Tom Nook, the localization translated this item as "raccoon figurine" instead of as "tanuki figurine." HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

As much as I would like to use one of the localized names in this scenario, I think it is better to leave the name unchanged, since translating it as "raccoon figurine" is essentially erasing the original identity of the item. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

I agree, this isn't a raccoon, especially in a Japanese game. Also, a note: the rather odd name "racoon obje" appears to be a literal translation of  as "object", and the result of the item name character limit in being 12. We could call this "tanuki okimono" but I think "figurine" does not change or obfuscate the identity or meaning like translating some other items might. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #40: Tanukichi's autograph card → Nook's autograph card, or Tom Nook's autograph card
(The item in question is in row 1; row 2 is showcased for comparison since it shares some of its Japanese name and has appeared in for GameCube, and row 3 is showcased since it shares some of its Japanese name.) たぬきちサイン色紙 (たぬきちサインしきし, Tanukichi sain shikishi) literally translates to "Tanukichi autograph card." "Tanukichi" is Tom Nook's Japanese name, which is a play on, his species. The current item name is using "Tanukichi" instead of "Nook" or "Tom Nook," although all names are equally valid. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

Although either the usage of Tom Nook's English or Japanese name is equally valid, and although I wouldn't really mind if this item utilized either "Nook's autograph card" or "Tom Nook's autograph card," I slightly oppose due to the fact that the item has the word "Tanukichi" (たぬきち) written upon it. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

for "Tom Nook's autograph card". Tom Nook is Tanukichi and I think that it is more useful to identify this item's pertinence to Tom Nook than preserve the Japanese name, since it isn't a uniquely Japanese concept. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #41: tea dresser → tea tansu
茶箪笥 (ちゃだんす, cha dansu) literally translates to "tea dresser." The localizations of 箪笥 (dansu / tansu) for the and  have been translated as "dresser." However, the localization decided to leave it as the original Japanese terminology for this item only. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

As much as I would like to use the localized name in this scenario, I think it is better to leave the name unchanged, because directly translating だんす (dansu) for only 2/3 items is not consistent. If the localizated names are inconsistent, that's fine, and it's up to the official lozalization teams. But there isn't much benefit in syncing the community-translated name with the localized name in this scenario, even though (tansu)/dresser are interchangeable. All 3 should be "dresser," or all 3 should be "tansu." HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

Well, I do think all 3 should be "tansu" as explained above, but this one particularly. This is an example of a tansu that is not a dresser. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #42: traffic guidance robot → robotic flagman, or safety robot
交通誘導 (こうつうゆうどう, koutsūyūdou) literally translates to "traffic guidance," a role served by. However, the localization translates the word as "safety" in regards to the clothing item, while the unused internal translation uses the term "flagman," neither of which are accurate translations. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

The current name for the robot seems fine and probably does not need to be changed. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

I see no reason to change it. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #43: Tsukimi dango → moon dumpling, or dango
are a type of Japanese dumplings, of which Tsukimi dango are a specific variety eaten at Tsukimi (the Harvest Moon Festival). As can be seen on the Wikipedia page, there are many other varieties of dango. Although in all games the Japanese name is "Tsukimi dango", because the item is obtained in celebration of the Tsukimi festival, the localization opted to exclude the Tsukimi specifier. So it's another case of choosing to keep the more specific Japanese name, or omitting it to conform with localizations.

As much as I would like to use the localized name in this scenario, I think it is better to leave the name unchanged, since "Tsukimi dango" is a specific type of dango. The unused internal name is also not exactly accurate. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

for the same reasons, to preserve the identity and name of the item. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #44: wastebasket → trash can
屑籠 (くずかご, kuzukago) literally translates to either "wastepaper basket" or "wastebasket." However, the localization translated it as "trash can" instead. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

The current name is fine. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

I also agree with HylianAngel on this one. "wastebasket" is a better translation than "trash can". Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #45: wooden crate → wooden box
This is essentially the same item between all its appearances (although the FRAGILE stamp was removed after ), and the Japanese name remains the same, きばこ. Obviously "crate" and "box" are not very dissimilar, and it seems to be that きばこ (木箱 in kanji) can refer to either a large wooden crate used for transportation, like this one, or a smaller wooden box for other purposes. But without context, it probably would just be translated as "wooden box", since that applies to both. .

I like that it matches the localization for consistency. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

for the reasons I said in my comment when working on this page. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Item #46: worn-out mud wall → worn-out dirt wall, or dirt-clod wall
The current name of the item, "worn-out mud wall", is the literal translation of the name ボロいつちかべ. The item has this Japanese name in all games but also is called "dirt-clod wall" in all English localizations. They're not exactly the same but they both convey the nature of the wall.

ボロい土壁 (ボロいつちかべ) ボロい = raggedy; crumbling; worn-out; shabby-looking つち = earth; soil; dirt; mud かべ = wall Technically this item could be translated as "worn-out dirt wall," and it's an equally valid translation. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

Between "worn-out dirt wall" and "dirt-clod wall," I vote for "worn-out dirt wall," since it's an equally valid translation while being a slight step towards the localized name. I would prefer not to use the localization because it slightly changes the meaning of the original Japanese name. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

I also "worn-out dirt wall". Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Discussion
Here is a summary of the items I'm in of moving: More specific in describing the identity of the item: - apple cardboard → apple cardboard box - mandarin cardboard → tangerine cardboard box - basket goal → basketball hoop - cracker → party popper - pail → garbage pail - pinball table → pinball machine - striped pylon → striped cone

Alternate but equally valid translation that serves some type of benefit: - big-haul flag → big-catch flag - cabriole-leg bathtub → clawfoot bathtub - New Year's food → osechi - staircase dresser → stair dresser - wooden crate → wooden box - worn-out mud wall → worn-out dirt wall

The other name changes I because I feel they either alter the original name meaning too much or are not necessary. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

Here are my preferences on changes summarized: More accurate/specific names and translations:
 * apple cardboard → apple cardboard box
 * mandarin cardboard → mandarin cardboard box
 * basket goal → basketball hoop
 * bathhouse tile floor → bathhouse tile or keep as is
 * big-haul flag → big-catch flag
 * cabriole-leg bathtub → claw-foot tub
 * cracker → party popper
 * light brown drum can → brown drum
 * red drum can → red drum
 * pail → garbage pail
 * pinball table → pinball machine
 * rag chair → chair with cloth
 * rag desk → desk with rag
 * striped pylon → striped cone
 * Tanukichi's autograph card → Tom Nook's autograph card
 * wooden crate → wooden box
 * worn-out mud wall → worn-out dirt wall

Preserves the unique Japanese identity of the item (I would prefer romanizations than translations):
 * alcove → tokonoma
 * beckoning cat → maneki-neko or keep as beckoning cat
 * beckoning black cat → black maneki-neko or black beckoning cat
 * daruma (keep as is)
 * New Year's Eve noodles → toshikoshi soba or keep as is
 * New Year's food → osechi
 * Paulownia dresser → Paulownia tansu
 * safety frog → buji kaeru or safe return frog
 * shakōkidogu (keep as is)
 * staircase dresser → staircase tansu
 * tanuki figurine (keep as is)
 * tea dresser → tea tansu
 * Tsukimi dango (keep as is)

The rest are fine as is, except I remain conflicted on N-cube/N-logo shirt. Chubby Bub (talk) 06:51, January 11, 2023 (EST)

Addendum
As mentioned in the previous discussion, the items in Category:Items with no English localization can be generalized into 4 groups:
 * 1) The item reappears in a later game entry. Its translation on Nookipedia is different from a later game entry. (46 items)
 * 2) The item reappears in a later game entry. Its translation on Nookipedia is already identical to its name in a later game entry. (31 items)
 * 3) The item does not reappear in a later game entry. (27 items)
 * 4) The item does not exactly fit in the previous 3 groups due to major changes with the Japanese name/design in later game entries. (6 items)

Group 1 items were addressed in the previous discussion. Groups 2, 3, and 4 items were not addressed earlier; they are listed here for posterity. HylianAngel (talk) 16:22, January 9, 2023 (EST)

Group 2
Items with a Nookipedia name that is already identical to the localized name in a later game entry.

Stationery
While the (キケンなびんせん, kiken na binsen) technically never reappears in another game entry outside of  and, it shares its base name, "danger" (キケン, kiken), with the haz-mat barrel (キケンなドラムかん, kiken na doramu kan) in , , and , and the oil barrel (Danger) (ドラムかん (きけん), doramu kan (kiken)) in. So the word kiken is translated in some official capacity as "danger" in.

Group 3
Items that never appear again after DnM/DnM+/DnMe+.

Gray cells indicate a leftover dummy item with an unused name that is still in the game's data, but has been removed from gameplay. Note that in all dummy items have names in the code, but will always display as かぐ? ("furniture?") when put into gameplay. Hexadecimal IDs are included for clarity.

Note: the washbasin item is different from the one in the Dr.'s Office Set (washbasin in ) and the one in the Spa Theme (washbasin in, wash station in and )

Items only in
Since these items first and only appeared in, they have no leftover name in and no localization in later games. Note that the princess bed is a different item in both Japanese name and appearance from the one in later games' Princess Series.

Clothing
Clothing items were all directly replaced, but the names of the placed furniture versions of the clothing (whose names can never be seen in-game) were left over and even localized.

Group 4
Items that are special exceptions.