Translation guide
The property of being easily set on fire. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through nouns and adjectives related to flammability, with careful distinction between 'inflammable' (easily ignited) and 'non-flammable'.
Describing a substance or material that is easily ignited and burns readily.
Standard technical and everyday term for 'flammability' or 'combustibility'. Used in safety labels and general descriptions.
この物質は可燃性が高い。
This substance has high inflammability.
可燃性の液体は火気厳禁です。
Inflammable liquids must be kept away from open flames.
Specifically refers to the property of catching fire from a spark or flame, often used for liquids and gases.
引火性の高いガスです。
It's a highly inflammable gas.
Everyday adjective meaning 'easily burned' or 'inflammable'. More colloquial than 可燃性.
紙は燃えやすい。
Paper is inflammable.
Referring to the degree or class of flammability, often in technical or regulatory contexts.
Means 'flammability class' or 'flammability rating'. Used in building materials, textiles, etc.
このカーテンは可燃性等級が低い。
These curtains have a low inflammability rating.
Expressing that something does not catch fire easily or is fire-resistant. Important for contrast.
Standard term for 'non-flammability' or 'incombustibility'. Used in building codes and product specifications.
不燃性の建材を使用してください。
Please use non-flammable building materials.
Means 'flame retardant' or 'low flammability'. Indicates resistance to burning but not complete non-flammability.
In English, 'inflammable' means 'easily set on fire', not 'non-flammable'. This often confuses learners. In Japanese, 可燃性 (flammable) and 不燃性 (non-flammable) are clearly distinct. Do not use 不燃性 for 'inflammable'.
It's a flame-retardant fabric.