Translation guide
The internal mechanisms, structure, or hidden processes of a system, organization, or device. Often used figuratively.
Describing how something operates internally, often hidden from view.
Literally 'internal structure'. Used for physical or abstract systems.
この時計の内部構造は非常に複雑だ。
The inner workings of this watch are very complex.
Means 'internal mechanism' or 'how it works inside'. Common for both machines and organizations.
会社の内部の仕組みを理解するのは難しい。
It's difficult to understand the inner workings of the company.
General word for 'mechanism' or 'structure'. Can stand alone when context is clear.
このシステムの仕組みを説明してください。
Please explain the inner workings of this system.
Refers to a mechanism or organization, often used in technical or formal contexts.
この装置の機構は特許で保護されている。
The inner workings of this device are protected by a patent.
Loanword 'mechanism' combined with 'internal'. Used in technical or engineering contexts.
ソフトウェアの内部メカニズムを解析する。
Analyze the inner workings of the software.
Referring to the often unseen operations or power dynamics within an organization or system.
Means 'internal affairs' or 'inside story'. Implies knowledge of what happens behind the scenes.
彼は政治の内部事情に詳しい。
He is familiar with the inner workings of politics.
Literally 'the other side' or 'behind the scenes'. Used for hidden aspects of an organization or process.
組織の裏側を知る。
Know the inner workings of the organization.
Refers to 'inside story' or 'behind-the-scenes' details, often with a nuance of secrecy.
Originally 'mechanism' or 'contraption', but can figuratively mean 'trick' or 'hidden workings'.
Focusing on the practical operation or process rather than physical structure.
Means 'actual movement' or 'how it really works'. Emphasizes real-world operation.
市場の実際の動きを観察する。
Observe the inner workings of the market.
Refers to 'operational mechanism', suitable for systems, rules, or procedures.
新しい制度の運用の仕組みを学ぶ。
Learn the inner workings of the new system.
Means 'function' or 'functionality'. Can be used when inner workings are about how something functions.
Directly translating 'inner workings' as 内側の働き (uchigawa no hataraki) sounds unnatural. Use the phrases provided above depending on context.
For machines, 内部構造 or 仕組み is common. For organizations, 内部事情 or 裏側 fits better. For abstract systems, 仕組み or 機能 works well.
その事件の内幕が暴露された。
The inner workings of the incident were exposed.
彼は組織のからくりを暴いた。
He exposed the inner workings of the organization.
The inner workings of the brain are not yet fully understood.