Translation guide
How to express the idea of making something active or starting a process in Japanese, depending on context.
Turning on or enabling a feature, account, software, or mechanism.
Common for enabling a function, setting, or account. Often used in software and IT contexts.
Account activation is complete.
To activate this feature, please open the settings.
Loanword from English, used especially for software/product activation (e.g., license keys).
A product key is required for software activation.
Starting up a machine, program, or engine. Focuses on the act of booting or launching.
The app takes time to activate (start up).
Operation or activation of a mechanical device, sensor, or safety system.
The sensor activated and the alarm went off.
Triggering a reaction, making a substance active, or initiating a biological mechanism.
Standard term for chemical, biological, or metaphorical activation (e.g., enzymes, cells, economy).
Activation of the enzyme requires a specific temperature.
Specialized term for activation, often in biochemistry or medical contexts. Less common than 活性化.
Putting a group, protocol, or operation into action.
To invoke or put into effect a plan, law, or emergency measure.
The government activated the state of emergency declaration.
To set in motion, start operations (e.g., a project, team, or machine).
Activate the project team.
To commence activities; a more general phrase for starting operations.
The volunteer group activated (started activities).
有効化 is for enabling functions/settings (digital or abstract), while 活性化 is for making something biologically or chemically active. Don't use 活性化 for turning on Wi-Fi.
activate Wi-Fi
activate cells
アクティベーション is mainly for software/product activation. Using it for general 'turning on' sounds unnatural.
この薬は免疫系を活性化する。
This drug activates the immune system.
enzyme activator