Translation guide
A type of rod-shaped bacteria. In everyday English, 'bacillus' is often used loosely for any bacteria, but in scientific contexts it refers specifically to the genus Bacillus or rod-shaped forms. This guide covers both the scientific term and common usage.
Referring to the specific bacterial genus Bacillus or rod-shaped bacteria in a scientific/medical context.
The standard scientific term for 'bacillus' (rod-shaped bacterium). Used in biology and medicine.
Using 'bacillus' in a non-scientific way to mean germs or bacteria in general.
In English, 'bacillus' is sometimes used loosely to mean any bacterium, but in Japanese, 桿菌 (かんきん) is strictly a scientific term. Using it in casual conversation may sound odd. Stick to 細菌 or ばい菌 for everyday talk.
この桿菌はグラム陽性です。
This bacillus is Gram-positive.
Katakana rendering of the genus name 'Bacillus'. Used in scientific contexts, often when referring to the genus specifically.
バシラス属の細菌は土壌に広く分布しています。
Bacteria of the genus Bacillus are widely distributed in soil.
General term for 'bacteria'. Not specific to rod-shaped ones, but sometimes used in non-specialist contexts when 'bacillus' is meant loosely.
This is a broader term; use only when the rod shape is not important.
この細菌は桿菌の一種です。
This bacterium is a type of bacillus.
The common word for 'bacteria' or 'germs'. Use this when the English 'bacillus' is used loosely.
手にはたくさんの細菌がついています。
There are many bacilli (germs) on your hands.
Colloquial term for 'germs', often with a negative connotation. Suitable for casual speech.
ばい菌が入らないように消毒してね。
Disinfect it so no bacilli get in.