Translation guide
The English term "cross section" has two main uses: a physical slice or cut through an object (often in diagrams), and a figurative sense meaning a representative sample of a group. This guide covers both, with natural Japanese expressions for each.
To refer to a surface or view exposed by cutting through an object, often used in science, engineering, or diagrams.
The most common and direct translation for a physical cross section, used in technical and everyday contexts.
To describe a selection of people or things that represents the whole, often used in statistics, surveys, or social commentary.
While 断面 can be used figuratively, it may sound slightly stiff or technical. For casual conversation about a diverse group, phrases like いろんな人 (various people) or 多様な人々 (diverse people) are more natural.
パーティーにはいろんな人が来ていた。
There was a cross section of people at the party.
This diagram shows a cross section of the bridge.
Specifically a cross-sectional diagram or drawing. Use when emphasizing the visual representation.
断面図を見ると、内部の構造がわかります。
Looking at the cross-sectional diagram, you can see the internal structure.
A transverse cross section, i.e., a cut perpendicular to the long axis. Technical term.
幹の横断面を顕微鏡で観察した。
We observed a transverse cross section of the trunk under a microscope.
Also used figuratively for a representative sample, though less common than the physical sense. Often appears in phrases like 社会の断面 (a cross section of society).
この調査は、現代社会の断面を映し出している。
This survey reflects a cross section of modern society.
Means 'representative example(s)'. A natural way to express the idea of a cross section when talking about a sample.
参加者は、地域住民の代表的な例と言える。
The participants can be called a cross section of local residents.
Literally 'broad strata', used to describe a wide cross section of people, especially in terms of demographics.
その番組は、幅広い層の視聴者に人気がある。
The program is popular with a broad cross section of viewers.
Means 'various people'. A simpler, less formal way to convey a cross section of people.
街ではさまざまな人々を見かける。
You see a cross section of people in the city.