Translation guide
The English word "device" covers a wide range of meanings, from physical gadgets to rhetorical techniques. This guide helps learners choose the most natural Japanese expression based on the intended meaning.
A piece of equipment or a machine designed for a specific purpose, especially electronic ones.
General term for equipment or apparatus, often used in technical contexts.
この機器は操作が簡単です。
This device is easy to operate.
Refers to a device or apparatus, often larger or more complex, like a piece of machinery.
A new safety device was installed.
Loanword from English, commonly used for electronic gadgets like smartphones, tablets, etc.
This device uses the latest technology.
Often used for smaller tools or instruments, such as medical or kitchen devices.
Please sterilize the medical devices.
A plan, scheme, or trick used to accomplish a goal.
A means or way to achieve an end. Can be used for both positive and negative purposes.
He will use any device to achieve his goal.
A plan or policy, often used in formal or strategic contexts.
A contrivance or mechanism, sometimes implying a clever trick or setup.
A figure of speech or stylistic technique used in writing or speech.
A bomb or similar weapon.
A distinctive design used as a symbol, often on shields or flags.
A heraldic device or crest.
The family device is depicted on the flag.
When 'device' means a method or trick, translating it as デバイス or 機器 will sound unnatural. Use 手段 or 方策 instead.
It's just a negotiating device.
機器 is a broad term for equipment, often electronic. 装置 implies a larger or more complex apparatus. デバイス is a loanword used mainly for modern electronic gadgets like smartphones.
問題解決のための方策を考えよう。
Let's think of a device to solve the problem.
This is a device to boost sales.
Many literary devices are used in this novel.
The police defused the explosive device.