Translation guide
The English word 'installation' covers several distinct meanings: setting up equipment or software, a formal ceremony for someone taking office, a large-scale art exhibit, and a military facility. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each context.
To express the act of putting in place and making ready for use, such as installing an app, a machine, or infrastructure.
The most common term for installing software or apps. A loanword from English, used as a suru-verb.
I installed a new app.
Used for installing physical equipment, devices, or facilities. Often used in formal or technical contexts.
Installing an air conditioner requires a professional.
Focuses on attaching or mounting something, like a shelf or a car part. Implies physical attachment.
Please tell me how to install the curtain rail.
Used for introducing and implementing new systems, policies, or technologies in an organization.
The installation of the new system is scheduled for next month.
Refers to installing large, heavy equipment or fixtures, like a bathtub or industrial machinery. Often implies permanent placement.
The installation of the bathtub has been completed.
To refer to a formal event where a person is placed in a high office, such as a president or a bishop.
The standard term for an inauguration or installation ceremony for a public office.
The president's installation ceremony was held.
Specifically for appointment ceremonies, often for judges or cabinet members.
Used for religious or chivalric orders, such as the installation of a bishop or a knight. Rare in everyday contexts.
To describe a large-scale, often site-specific artwork designed to transform the perception of a space.
The standard loanword for contemporary art installations. Widely understood in art contexts.
This museum is exhibiting a large-scale installation.
Explicitly says 'installation artwork', useful for clarity.
To refer to a military establishment, such as a base or camp.
設置 (せっち) is the most general term for installing equipment or facilities. 取り付け (とりつけ) emphasizes attaching or mounting something to a surface. 据え付け (すえつけ) is used for heavy, permanent installations like machinery or bathtubs.
インストール is only for software or digital content. For physical devices, use 設置 or 取り付け.
(incorrect) to install an air conditioner
I attended the installation ceremony for the new director.
The bishop's installation ceremony was held at the cathedral.
Her installation artwork uses the entire space.
The military installation came under attack.