Translation guide
The English word 'component' refers to a part of a larger system, machine, or mixture. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 部品 (buhin) for physical parts, while 構成要素 (kōsei yōso) is used for abstract or conceptual parts. The choice depends on context: physical vs. abstract, technical vs. everyday, and whether the part is replaceable.
A tangible piece that can be assembled, replaced, or repaired, such as in electronics, vehicles, or machinery.
The standard word for a physical component or part, especially in manufacturing, repair, and engineering contexts. It implies a replaceable or standardized piece.
この機械の部品はすべて日本製です。
All the components of this machine are made in Japan.
故障した部品を交換する必要があります。
We need to replace the faulty component.
Loanword from English, used in casual or commercial contexts, often for aftermarket parts, accessories, or in hobbies like model building.
このパーツはどこで買えますか？
Where can I buy this component?
More formal or technical, emphasizing that the part is a constituent of a larger assembly. Used in engineering specifications or patents.
この装置の構成部品をリストアップしてください。
Please list the components of this device.
A non-physical element that makes up a whole, such as in software, organizations, theories, or processes.
The most common term for an abstract component or constituent element. Used in academic, business, and technical writing.
成功の構成要素は何だと思いますか？
What do you think are the components of success?
このシステムの主要な構成要素を説明します。
I will explain the main components of this system.
A more general word for 'element' or 'factor', often used when the component is not strictly defined or is one of many contributing parts.
A substance that is part of a compound, food, or chemical mixture.
Used for ingredients in food, cosmetics, chemicals, or medicines. It emphasizes the compositional makeup.
この化粧品の主な成分は何ですか？
What are the main components of this cosmetic?
食品の成分表示を確認してください。
Please check the list of components on the food label.
Refers to raw materials or ingredients, often in industrial or cooking contexts. It implies the source material before processing.
部品 (buhin) is for physical, often mechanical parts (screws, gears, circuit boards). 構成要素 (kōsei yōso) is for abstract parts (factors, modules, conceptual pieces). Using 部品 for an abstract idea sounds strange.
チームワークは成功の構成要素です。
Teamwork is a component of success.
コンポーネント is only used in specific technical fields like software or audio equipment. For general physical parts, use 部品; for abstract parts, use 構成要素.
An important component of design is color.
Loanword used in IT and software engineering for modular parts (e.g., UI components, software components). Not used for physical parts.
このコンポーネントは再利用可能です。
This component is reusable.
All components of this product are natural.