Translation guide
A type of large planet composed mainly of elements heavier than hydrogen and helium, such as water, ammonia, and methane. In astronomy, 'ice giant' refers specifically to Uranus and Neptune in our solar system. This guide covers how to express this concept in Japanese, from scientific terms to descriptive phrases.
Referring to the class of planets that includes Uranus and Neptune, characterized by a thick atmosphere and an icy mantle.
Referring to a giant made of ice or associated with ice, often in fantasy, games, or mythology.
The most natural translation for a mythical or fantasy ice giant. It literally means 'giant of ice'.
北欧神話には氷の巨人が登場する。
Ice giants appear in Norse mythology.
In astronomy, 'ice giant' (天王星型惑星) is distinct from 'gas giant' (木星型惑星). Gas giants are primarily hydrogen and helium, while ice giants contain heavier elements. Do not confuse these terms.
木星は木星型惑星で、天王星は天王星型惑星です。
Jupiter is a gas giant, and Uranus is an ice giant.
The literal translation 氷の巨星 (こおりのきょせい) is not used in astronomy. Use 天王星型惑星 or アイスジャイアント instead.
The standard astronomical term for 'ice giant' in Japanese, literally 'Uranus-type planet'. This is the most precise and commonly used term in scientific contexts.
天王星型惑星は、主に水やアンモニアなどの氷でできている。
Ice giants are mainly composed of ices such as water and ammonia.
The direct loanword from English, used in some scientific and popular science contexts. Less common than 天王星型惑星 but easily understood.
アイスジャイアントは、太陽系では天王星と海王星の2つだけだ。
There are only two ice giants in the solar system: Uranus and Neptune.
A descriptive phrase meaning 'giant ice planet'. This is not a standard term but can be used to explain the concept in simpler language.
巨大氷惑星は、ガス惑星よりも氷の割合が高い。
Giant ice planets have a higher proportion of ice than gas planets.
Specifically refers to the 'frost giants' of Norse mythology (Jötunn). Use this when the context is clearly Norse mythology.
霜の巨人は神々と戦った。
The frost giants fought against the gods.
The English loanword used in fantasy games and fiction. It may be understood by fans of Western fantasy, but 氷の巨人 is more natural in Japanese.
ゲームでアイスジャイアントを倒した。
I defeated an ice giant in the game.