Translation guide
An escapement is a mechanical device in clocks and watches that controls the release of energy from the power source, allowing the gear train to advance in precise, regular steps. This guide covers how to refer to this mechanism in Japanese, from technical terms to everyday explanations.
The precise mechanical device in horology that regulates the release of energy.
Standard technical term for 'escapement' in clocks and watches. Used in horology, engineering, and formal contexts.
この時計の脱進機は非常に精密に作られている。
The escapement of this watch is made with extreme precision.
Loanword from English, commonly used in watch enthusiast communities and some technical contexts. Less formal than 脱進機.
エスケープメントの設計が時計の精度を決める。
The design of the escapement determines the accuracy of the watch.
Describing what an escapement does in simple terms, for example when talking about how a mechanical clock works.
A descriptive phrase meaning 'a device that makes the movement of gears constant'. Natural when explaining the purpose without technical jargon.
脱進機は、歯車の動きを一定にする装置です。
An escapement is a device that makes the movement of gears constant.
Means 'mechanism that advances the clock hands at a constant speed'. Useful for casual explanations.
この部分が時計の針を一定の速さで進める仕組みになっています。
This part is the mechanism that advances the clock hands at a constant speed.
Referring to particular designs like anchor escapement, verge escapement, etc.
Prefix with the type name (often in katakana) + 脱進機. E.g., アンクル脱進機 (anchor escapement), バージ脱進機 (verge escapement).
アンクル脱進機は18世紀に発明された。
The anchor escapement was invented in the 18th century.
脱進機 is the standard term in technical documents, textbooks, and formal settings. エスケープメント is common among watch enthusiasts and in casual conversation, but may sound less precise in academic contexts.
The English word 'escapement' does not have a direct everyday Japanese equivalent. Using 脱進機 in a non-technical conversation might confuse listeners. Instead, explain the function as shown above.