Translation guide
The English word "conception" has two main meanings: the process of becoming pregnant, and the act of forming an idea or plan. These are expressed with different Japanese words.
The biological process of conceiving a child.
The standard medical/biological term for conception. Used in formal or technical contexts.
Literally "becoming pregnant." A more everyday way to talk about conception, though it focuses on the result (pregnancy) rather than the moment of fertilization.
なかなか妊娠しないので、病院に行きました。
I wasn't getting pregnant, so I went to the hospital.
Fertilization. More specific than conception; refers to the union of sperm and egg. Often used in medical or scientific contexts.
The act of thinking of or creating an idea, plan, or design.
着想 (chakusō) is the initial spark of an idea, while 構想 (kōsō) is the developed plan or structure. Use 着想 for the moment of inspiration and 構想 for the elaborated concept.
概念 (gainen) means "concept" in the sense of an abstract general notion, not the act of conceiving something. Avoid using it to translate "conception" as a process.
The probability of conception decreases with age.
In vitro fertilization is one type of fertility treatment.
The moment of getting an idea; inspiration or conception of a creative thought. Often used for artistic or inventive ideas.
この小説の着想は夢から得た。
The conception for this novel came from a dream.
A plan, concept, or blueprint. Emphasizes the structure or framework of an idea, often for projects or works.
新事業の構想を練っている。
I'm working on the conception of a new business.
The act of thinking up or devising something. A more general, everyday expression.
新しいゲームを考え出すのは楽しい。
Conceiving a new game is fun.
Way of thinking; idea; conception. Often used for a unique or creative approach.
彼の発想はいつも独創的だ。
His conceptions are always original.