Translation guide
The English word 'derivative' has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common uses: something derived from another source (especially in art, products, or ideas), a financial instrument, and a mathematical concept. It also notes the adjective form meaning 'lacking originality.'
Referring to a work, product, or idea that is based on or developed from something else, often implying lack of originality.
a derivative novel · a derivative product · derivative ideas
Literally 'derived work.' Commonly used for artistic or literary works that are based on an original.
この映画は人気小説の派生作品だ。
This movie is a derivative work of a popular novel.
A general term for something derived or a byproduct. Can be used for physical or abstract things.
この製品は石油の派生物から作られている。
This product is made from petroleum derivatives.
A legal term for derivative works under copyright law.
翻訳は二次的著作物とみなされる。
Translations are considered derivative works.
Describing something, especially art or ideas, as unoriginal or imitative.
a derivative plot · derivative music · His style is too derivative.
Means 'lacking originality.' A natural way to express that something is derivative.
彼の作品は独創性のないものだと批判された。
His work was criticized as being derivative.
Means 'imitative.' Often used for art or style that copies others.
そのデザインはあまりにも模倣的だ。
The design is too derivative.
A contract whose value is based on an underlying asset, index, or rate.
derivatives market · trade derivatives · derivative instruments
The loanword 'derivative' is standard in finance.
彼はデリバティブ取引で大きな損失を出した。
He suffered huge losses in derivatives trading.
In calculus, the rate of change of a function.
take the derivative · first derivative · partial derivative
The standard mathematical term for 'derivative' of a function.
この関数の導関数を求めなさい。
Find the derivative of this function.
Direct translations like 派生的 (はせいてき) exist but are rarely used in natural Japanese. Instead, use phrases like 独創性のない or 模倣的な to describe something as derivative.
An idiomatic expression meaning 'rehash' or 'copycat,' implying a derivative and inferior imitation.
その映画は前作の二番煎じに過ぎない。
That movie is just a derivative rehash of the previous one.
The formal Japanese term for 'financial derivative products.'
金融派生商品のリスク管理が重要だ。
Risk management of financial derivatives is important.
Refers to the derivative at a specific point, often used in high school math.
x=2における微分係数を計算する。
Calculate the derivative at x=2.