Translation guide
The concept of heterogeneity—being composed of diverse, dissimilar elements—is expressed in Japanese through nouns, adjectives, and descriptive phrases. The most common and versatile term is 多様性 (diversity), but more specific words exist for technical, scientific, or formal contexts.
To describe a state of being diverse, varied, or composed of different kinds, often in social, cultural, or everyday contexts.
The most common and neutral word for 'diversity' or 'variety'. It can be used for heterogeneity in a broad sense, such as in society, nature, or opinions.
この地域は文化の多様性が豊かだ。
This region is rich in cultural diversity.
生物多様性を守ることが重要です。
It is important to protect biodiversity.
An adjective meaning 'diverse' or 'varied'. Often used in compounds or as a descriptor.
多様な意見を聞く必要がある。
We need to listen to diverse opinions.
A common phrase meaning 'various' or 'diverse'. It emphasizes a range of different types, but is less formal than 多様性.
様々な理由で人々が集まった。
People gathered for various reasons.
To describe a system, mixture, or population that is non-uniform, consisting of dissimilar parts, often in scientific, medical, or statistical contexts.
The direct technical term for 'heterogeneity' in scientific fields, emphasizing lack of uniformity. Common in chemistry, materials science, and statistics.
この合金の不均一性が強度に影響する。
The heterogeneity of this alloy affects its strength.
Used in statistics, meta-analysis, and social sciences to describe heterogeneity among studies or groups. Implies qualitative difference.
研究間の異質性が高いため、結果の解釈には注意が必要だ。
Because the heterogeneity between studies is high, caution is needed in interpreting the results.
A less common synonym for 不均一性, used in some technical contexts.
非均質性が問題となるケースもある。
There are cases where heterogeneity becomes a problem.
To describe a group or collection that is made up of many different, often unrelated, elements.
Refers to something being mixed or hybrid, often used for teams, groups, or cultural blends.
そのチームは経験豊富な選手と若手の混成だ。
The team is a mix of experienced players and young ones.
Means 'miscellaneous' or 'motley', often with a slightly negative nuance of being disorganized or lacking unity.
多様性 is used for positive or neutral diversity (e.g., biodiversity, cultural diversity). 不均一性 is a technical term for lack of uniformity and is not used in everyday conversation. Using 不均一性 in a social context would sound unnatural.
The English word 'heterogeneity' is often translated directly as 異種性 or 異種混交, but these are rarely used. Stick to the options above depending on context.
Find what you need from a jumble of miscellaneous information.