Translation guide
The English word 'chemical' can be a noun (a substance) or an adjective (relating to chemistry). In Japanese, the translation depends on the part of speech and context. This guide covers the most common and natural ways to express these meanings.
Referring to a substance used in or produced by chemistry, such as in industry, science, or everyday products.
The standard, formal term for a chemical substance. Used in scientific, industrial, and regulatory contexts.
この工場では有害な化学物質を取り扱っています。
This factory handles hazardous chemicals.
Often used for chemicals in the context of pharmaceuticals, laboratory reagents, or cleaning agents. Implies a prepared or commercial product.
この薬品は冷暗所に保管してください。
Please store this chemical in a cool, dark place.
A more specific term combining 'chemical' and 'agent/drug'. Common in laboratory and industrial settings.
実験では様々な化学薬品を使用します。
We use various chemicals in experiments.
Loanword from English, used in some product names or casual contexts, but not as common as the native terms. Can sound like marketing jargon.
このシャンプーはケミカルフリーです。
This shampoo is chemical-free.
Describing something as pertaining to the science of chemistry, such as a reaction, process, or property.
The most direct translation, using the noun '化学' (chemistry) with the possessive/no-adjective particle 'の'. Works for most contexts.
化学反応が起こった。
A chemical reaction occurred.
彼は化学の知識が豊富だ。
He has extensive chemical knowledge.
An adjectival noun meaning 'chemical' in a more abstract or scientific sense. Often used in compounds like '化学的性質' (chemical properties).
Describing something as made by chemical processes, often with a negative connotation of being unnatural.
Used to describe something as chemically produced or synthetic, often in contrast to natural. The 'な' is the attributive form of the adjectival noun.
化学的な肥料を使わない農業。
Farming that doesn't use chemical fertilizers.
Means 'synthetic' and is often used for materials like fibers or drugs. More specific than 'chemical' but commonly used in similar contexts.
このセーターは合成繊維でできている。
This sweater is made of synthetic (chemical) fibers.
English often uses 'chemical' as an adjective where Japanese would use a compound noun or a different structure. For example, 'chemical plant' is 化学工場 (かがくこうじょう), not 化学の工場. When in doubt, check if a specific compound word exists.
この物質の化学的性質を調べる。
We investigate the chemical properties of this substance.