Translation guide
The mathematical concept of a logarithm is expressed in Japanese using the term 対数 (taisū). This entry covers how to talk about logarithms in various contexts, from basic definitions to common phrases and notation.
logarithm
Referring to the logarithm function or value in general
The standard mathematical term for 'logarithm'. Used in all formal and technical contexts.
Logarithms are the inverse operation of exponentiation.
Common logarithms are logarithms with base 10.
Distinguishing between common, natural, and binary logarithms
Describing something that follows a logarithmic pattern
Referring to the function y = log(x) or its curve
Talking about a mathematical expression containing a logarithm
Referring to historical or manual computation aids
When reading 'log₂ 8 = 3' aloud, say 「ログにの8は3」 (rogu ni no hachi wa san). The base is indicated with に (ni) after ログ. For natural log, 'ln' is read as エルエヌ (eru enu) or 自然対数 (shizen taisū).
Natural logarithm (base e). Widely used in mathematics and physics.
The base of the natural logarithm is Napier's constant.
The computational complexity of algorithms is often expressed in binary logarithms.
Bacterial growth increases logarithmically.
When solving logarithmic equations, pay attention to the domain of the argument.
The slide rule uses the principle of logarithms.