Translation guide
The English word 'cylinder' can refer to a geometric shape, a mechanical part (like in an engine), or a container (like a gas cylinder). This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese word based on context.
Referring to a 3D shape with two parallel circular bases.
Standard term for a geometric cylinder. Used in math and everyday descriptions of cylindrical objects.
この形は円柱です。
This shape is a cylinder.
Loanword from English, often used in technical or mechanical contexts, but can also refer to the shape.
シリンダーの体積を計算してください。
Please calculate the volume of the cylinder.
The cylindrical chamber in an engine where a piston moves.
The standard term for an engine cylinder. Used in automotive and mechanical contexts.
このエンジンは4気筒です。
This engine has four cylinders.
シリンダー内で燃料が燃焼します。
Fuel burns inside the cylinder.
Specifically refers to an engine cylinder, often used in compound words like 4気筒 (four-cylinder).
A pressurized container for gases, typically tall and cylindrical.
Common term for a gas cylinder, such as for propane, oxygen, or scuba tanks. From German 'Bombe'.
ガスボンベを交換してください。
Please replace the gas cylinder.
酸素ボンベが必要です。
We need an oxygen cylinder.
Also used for gas cylinders, especially in technical or industrial contexts.
General cylindrical items like rollers, drums, or tubes.
Refers to a cylindrical object or tube, often used for hollow cylinders or in technical descriptions.
この機械には円筒形の部品が使われています。
This machine uses cylindrical parts.
A general word for tube or cylinder, often used in everyday contexts like a pipe or a container.
筒の中に手紙が入っていました。
There was a letter inside the cylinder.
円柱 (えんちゅう) is a solid geometric cylinder, while 円筒 (えんとう) is a hollow cylindrical object. シリンダー is a loanword used mainly for mechanical parts and gas containers.
円柱の体積を求める。
Find the volume of a cylinder.
円筒形の容器。
A cylindrical container.
While シリンダー is understood, it may sound unnatural for geometric shapes or everyday objects. Use 円柱 or 円筒 for shapes, and ボンベ for gas cylinders.
A four-cylinder engine has good fuel efficiency.
High-pressure gas cylinders are dangerous.