Translation guide
The English word "inflammatory" has two main uses: one literal (causing physical inflammation) and one figurative (provoking strong emotions or conflict). This guide helps learners express both meanings naturally in Japanese.
Describing something that causes swelling, redness, or irritation in the body.
Standard medical term meaning 'inflammatory' (literally 'of inflammatory nature'). Used in formal or technical contexts.
This is an inflammatory disease.
Describing speech, writing, or actions that are intended to cause anger, controversy, or unrest.
Means 'provocative' or 'inflammatory'. Commonly used for speech or actions that deliberately provoke a reaction.
Do not directly translate 'inflammatory' as '火をつけるような' (like setting fire) in figurative contexts; it sounds unnatural. Use the provided options instead.
挑発的 (provocative) focuses on provoking a reaction, often anger or annoyance. 扇動的 (incendiary) implies stirring up a crowd to action, often with political overtones. Choose based on the intended effect.
Verb phrase meaning 'to cause inflammation'. More common in everyday explanations.
This substance can cause inflammation on the skin.
Means 'irritating' or 'causing irritation'. Used for substances that provoke a reaction, not necessarily full inflammation.
Be careful with irritating chemicals.
His inflammatory remarks sparked a controversy.
Means 'incendiary' or 'rabble-rousing'. Often used for speech that incites people to action, especially in political contexts.
Inflammatory speeches are prohibited.
Means 'emotional' or 'heated'. Can describe language that is inflammatory due to strong emotion rather than deliberate provocation.
Please don't use inflammatory language.
Means 'extreme' or 'radical'. Can be used for inflammatory content that is extreme in nature.
The article contained inflammatory content.