Translation guide
The English word 'inanimate' describes objects, things, or concepts that are not alive. In Japanese, there is no single adjective that perfectly matches all uses. Instead, you express the idea based on context: describing non-living things, grammatical distinctions, or lifelessness.
To say that something is not alive, such as a rock, a chair, or a concept.
inanimate object · inanimate matter
Means 'without life'. Used for things that lack life, often in a more descriptive or literary context.
生命のない物体
an inanimate object
Plain negative form of 'to live'. Casual and straightforward, but can sound blunt. Use in informal contexts.
この人形は生きていない。
This doll is not alive.
Referring to the grammatical category of animacy, where nouns are classified as animate or inanimate, affecting verb forms or particles.
Noun meaning 'inanimate object' or 'non-living thing'. Used in linguistic contexts to describe the inanimate category.
日本語では、無生物主語はあまり使われません。
In Japanese, inanimate subjects are not often used.
Specifically 'inanimate noun'. Used in grammar explanations.
「机」は無生物名詞です。
'Desk' is an inanimate noun.
Describing something that seems dull, motionless, or lacking energy, like a performance or a person's expression.
Means 'lifeless' or 'lacking vitality'. Commonly used for faces, eyes, performances, etc.
彼の演技は生気がなかった。
His performance was lifeless.
Means 'expressionless'. Often used for faces or reactions that show no emotion, implying a kind of inanimateness.
彼女は無表情な顔で座っていた。
She sat with an inanimate expression.
Do not try to translate 'inanimate' as a single adjective in all cases. Japanese often uses phrases like 無生物の or 生命のない depending on context. Using 無生物 as an adjective directly (e.g., 無生物な) is unnatural.
Japanese grammar sometimes distinguishes between animate and inanimate subjects. For example, the verbs いる (for animate) and ある (for inanimate) are used for existence. Understanding this concept helps with natural expression.