1.
paperback book, bunko-format book
A small, affordable paperback book in the standard Japanese bunko format (approximately A6 size, 105 × 148 mm). A distinctive feature of the Japanese publishing industry, bunko editions are typically reprints of hardcover books released at a lower price point.
文庫本なら鞄に入る。
A paperback will fit in a bag.
ハードカバーは高いので、文庫本が出るまで待つことにした。
Since the hardcover is expensive, I decided to wait until the paperback comes out.
通勤電車の中で文庫本を読んでいる人を見かけることが多い。
You often see people reading paperbacks on commuter trains.
USAGE:
A compound of 文庫 (library/collection) and 本 (book). The bunko format is a staple of Japanese publishing — major publishers have their own bunko lines (e.g., 新潮文庫, 角川文庫). Bunko books are typically priced around ¥500-800, significantly cheaper than hardcovers. They are popular for reading on trains due to their compact size.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 文庫本を読む: to read a paperback
- 文庫本化: publication in paperback format
- 文庫本サイズ: paperback size
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 単行本: standalone book, hardcover edition
- 新書: shinsho (a slightly taller pocket-sized nonfiction format)