Translation guide
The English word 'biological' is used in several distinct contexts. This guide covers how to express these in Japanese, from scientific terms to everyday phrases.
Describing something as pertaining to the science of biology or to living things in general.
The most direct and common translation for 'biological' in scientific and academic contexts. It is an adjective formed from 生物学 (biology).
This is a biological problem.
Used as a noun modifier meaning 'of biology'. Often interchangeable with 生物学的な, but slightly more formal or academic.
I work in the field of biology.
Literally 'of living things'. Used when referring to characteristics or processes of organisms, rather than the science itself.
Biological diversity is important.
Referring to genetic or birth relationships, as opposed to adoptive or step relationships.
Literally 'connected by blood'. The most natural way to say 'biological' when referring to family members.
Referring to weapons or warfare that use pathogens or toxins.
Used in legal, medical, or formal contexts to specify a genetic parent.
Formal term for 'biological parent'. Used in documents or professional settings.
Do not use 生物学的な for family members in casual conversation. It sounds overly clinical. Use 血のつながった or 実の instead.
He is my biological father. (unnatural in casual speech)
血のつながった emphasizes blood relation and can be used for any relative. 実の is more common for parents and siblings and carries a nuance of 'real' as opposed to step- or adoptive.
He is not my biological father.
A prefix meaning 'real' or 'true', used for biological parents, siblings, etc. Common in everyday speech.
I want to meet my biological mother.
Specifically for 'biological' in the sense of 'birth' (e.g., birth mother). More emotionally nuanced.
I am searching for my biological parents.
The standard term for 'biological weapon'. Often used in news and formal contexts.
The use of biological weapons is prohibited.
Means 'by biological weapons' or 'biological (attack)'. Used as a modifier.
A biological attack is feared.
Consent from the biological parent is required.