Translation guide
In Japanese, the word for 'droplet' depends on the size, context, and what the droplet is made of. The most common general term is 滴 (shizuku), but for very small droplets like those in a spray or mist, 飛沫 (himatsu) or 水滴 (suiteki) are used. In scientific or technical contexts, 液滴 (ekiteki) is common.
A small, roundish amount of liquid, often hanging or falling.
The most common and poetic word for a droplet, often used for tears, dew, or a single drop of liquid.
There is a droplet on the leaf.
A droplet of tear ran down her cheek.
Literally 'water droplet', used for drops of water, often in practical or scientific contexts.
There are water droplets on the window glass.
Alternative kanji for 滴, often used in literary or poetic contexts. Same reading and meaning.
The droplets of morning dew are beautiful.
A tiny droplet, often produced by sneezing, spraying, or splashing, and may be airborne.
Refers to droplets that fly through the air, such as from a sneeze, splash, or spray. Common in hygiene contexts.
Droplets from a sneeze fly.
Wear a mask to prevent droplet infection.
Technical term for 'micro-droplet', used in scientific or engineering contexts.
A small amount of liquid in a controlled setting, such as in experiments, printing, or emulsions.
滴 (shizuku) is the most general and can be used for any small drop of liquid, often with a poetic nuance. 水滴 (suiteki) specifically means a water droplet and is more neutral/technical. 飛沫 (himatsu) emphasizes droplets that are airborne or splashed, and is commonly used in medical/hygiene contexts.
In English, 'droplet' is often used for very small drops in the air (e.g., from a sneeze). In Japanese, 飛沫 is the natural choice here, not 滴. Using 滴 for airborne droplets may sound odd.
Technology for generating micro-droplets is advancing.
Oil droplets are dispersed in the water.