Translation guide
The English word 'exogenous' is a technical term meaning 'originating from outside'. In Japanese, it is primarily used in academic, scientific, or medical contexts. The most common equivalent is 外来性の (gairaisei no), but other expressions exist depending on the specific field. This guide covers the main ways to express this concept in Japanese.
To describe something that comes from an external source, especially in scientific or academic contexts.
Exogenous factors influenced the economy.
This plant grew from exogenous seeds.
Often used in medical contexts to mean 'exogenous' as opposed to 'endogenous' (内因性の). Emphasizes the cause coming from outside the body or system.
An exogenous infection is suspected.
A more general and slightly less technical phrase meaning 'from the outside'. Can be used in everyday language when explaining the concept.
It responds to exogenous stimuli.
Means 'foreign' or 'external'. Less common for 'exogenous' but can appear in some contexts like 'exogenous DNA' (外来DNA).
Exogenous DNA was introduced into the cell.
Referring to variables or shocks that originate outside an economic model.
Describing substances, DNA, or infections originating outside an organism.
外来性の is the most general and can be used across fields. 外因性の is specifically for causes (often medical). 外生的な is almost exclusively used in economics for model variables. Choose based on context.
exogenous DNA
exogenous depression
exogenous growth model
In everyday conversation, 'exogenous' is rarely used. If you need to express the idea of something coming from outside, use simpler phrases like 外部からの (from the outside) or 外から来た (came from outside). Using 外来性の in casual speech may sound overly technical or unnatural.
An exogenous shock disrupted the market.
Exogenous allergens trigger asthma.