Translation guide
The concept of incubation in English covers several distinct meanings: the biological process of keeping eggs warm to hatch, the medical incubation period of a disease, and the nurturing of ideas or projects. Japanese uses different words for each.
The process of keeping eggs warm so that they develop and hatch, either naturally by a bird or artificially in an incubator.
General term for hatching, covering both natural and artificial incubation. Often used in compounds.
The period between exposure to an infection and the appearance of symptoms.
A period of keeping an idea, plan, or creative work developing before it is ready.
When talking about developing ideas, do not use 孵化 (fuka) or 潜伏期間 (senpuku kikan). Use 温める (atatameru) instead.
Incubation of the eggs takes about three weeks.
Specifically refers to a bird sitting on eggs to keep them warm; brooding.
The hen is incubating the eggs.
Everyday verb meaning 'to warm'. Can be used for a bird warming eggs, but less technical.
The bird is warming its eggs.
Standard medical term for incubation period.
The incubation period for influenza is 1 to 4 days.
Metaphorically 'to warm up' an idea or plan; to let it develop over time. Very common.
This project is something I've been incubating for a long time.
Literary or formal term meaning 'to brew' or 'to foster', used for ideas or atmosphere.
To incubate a new culture.