Translation guide
The act or process of applying a lubricant to reduce friction. In Japanese, the most common word is 潤滑 (じゅんかつ), used in technical and mechanical contexts. For everyday situations like lubricating a bicycle chain, the verb 注油 (ちゅうゆ) or the phrase 油をさす (あぶらをさす) is more natural.
To express the concept of lubrication in engineering, machinery, or industrial contexts.
The standard technical term for lubrication. Used in compound words like 潤滑油 (lubricating oil) and 潤滑剤 (lubricant).
この機械は定期的な潤滑が必要です。
This machine requires regular lubrication.
Literally 'supplying oil'. Often used for lubrication of moving parts, especially in vehicles and machinery.
エンジンの給油は重要です。
Engine lubrication is important.
Means 'oiling' or 'lubricating' by applying oil. Common in maintenance contexts.
チェーンに注油してください。
Please lubricate the chain.
To talk about lubricating something in daily life, like a squeaky hinge or a bicycle chain.
The most common way to say 'to lubricate' or 'to oil' in everyday speech. Literally 'to apply oil'.
ドアの蝶番に油をさした。
I lubricated the door hinges.
Specifically for applying grease. Use when the lubricant is grease, not oil.
ギアにグリスを塗ってください。
Please apply grease to the gears.
To express the idea of making a process or relationship smoother, often with money or favors.
Literally 'lubricating oil', used metaphorically for something that facilitates smooth progress, like a bribe or social lubricant.
彼の冗談は会議の潤滑油になった。
His jokes served as a lubricant for the meeting.
Means 'to make smooth' or 'to facilitate'. Often used in business contexts.
コミュニケーションを円滑にする。
To facilitate communication.
潤滑 is a technical term. In daily conversation, use 油をさす or 注油する for applying oil to things like hinges or chains.