Translation guide
The relationship between actions/events and their results. In Japanese, this is commonly expressed through nouns, compound particles, and grammatical patterns that link a reason to an outcome.
Referring to the abstract principle that events have causes and consequences.
The standard term for cause and effect, often used in philosophical, scientific, or Buddhist contexts. Can also imply karma.
It's difficult to prove a cause-and-effect relationship.
A more literal, explanatory phrase meaning 'cause and result'. Common in everyday explanations.
Let's think about the relationship between cause and effect.
Expressing that one thing leads to another, often in explanations or narratives.
The most basic way to state a reason. Attach to the plain form of a verb, adjective, or noun + だ. Often used in casual speech.
Because it rained, the game was canceled.
A slightly more formal or polite way to give a reason. Often used in written Japanese or polite speech.
Because the train was late, I was late.
Indicates a cause or reason, often used in formal or written contexts. Can also mean 'for the purpose of'.
Due to the typhoon, the flight was canceled.
Implies a negative cause or blame. Used when the result is undesirable.
Because of him, the plan was ruined.
Inquiring why something happened or what caused it.
The standard word for 'why'. Can be used in both formal and informal settings.
Why were you late?
A more colloquial 'why', often used in casual conversation.
Very casual 'why', common in everyday speech among friends.
Referring to the reason or source of an event.
Referring to the result or consequence of an action.
The standard word for 'result' or 'effect'. Can be used in most situations.
The results of my efforts showed.
Influence or effect, often used when talking about impact on something.
Effectiveness or efficacy, often used for intended results like medicine or policies.
原因 (gen'in) refers to a direct cause, often in a causal chain. 理由 (riyū) is a reason or motive, often used for personal justifications. Use 原因 for physical or objective causes, and 理由 for explanations of actions.
The cause of the fire was careless handling of a cigarette.
Please explain the reason for your lateness.
While 因果 (inga) is the direct translation, it can sound philosophical or religious. In everyday conversation, it's more natural to use patterns like 〜から or 〜ので to express causality, or to use 原因 and 結果 separately.
どうしてそんなことをしたの？
Why did you do such a thing?
Why didn't you come?
成功の要因は何ですか？
What are the factors behind your success?
環境に悪い影響を与える。
It has a negative effect on the environment.
The effect of this medicine appeared immediately.