Translation guide
The English word "machine" covers a wide range of devices, from simple mechanical tools to complex electronic systems. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 機械 (kikai), but other words like マシン (mashin) or specific terms are used depending on context. This guide helps you choose the right Japanese expression based on what kind of machine you mean.
A device with moving parts that uses power to perform a task, such as a factory machine, a washing machine, or a vending machine.
The most common and general word for 'machine'. It refers to any mechanical device, from industrial machinery to household appliances. Safe to use in most contexts.
How do you operate this machine?
There are many large machines in the factory.
Loanword from English, often used for specific types of machines, especially in sports, fitness, or when the English name is commonly used (e.g., コーヒーマシン). Sounds slightly more modern or specialized than 機械.
I bought a new coffee machine.
I train on the machines at the gym.
A computer, server, or other electronic system, often referred to as a 'machine' in IT contexts.
In IT, 'machine' is commonly translated as マシン, especially for servers, virtual machines, or client machines. 機械 is rarely used for computers.
This machine doesn't have enough memory.
Launch a virtual machine.
Simply 'computer'. Use when 'machine' is a casual synonym for computer.
A car, motorcycle, airplane, or other vehicle, often referred to as a 'machine' in a slightly informal or enthusiastic way.
Used for vehicles, especially in racing, motorcycles, or when emphasizing performance. Sounds cool or technical.
He got a new machine (motorcycle/car).
Develop a racing machine.
General word for 'vehicle'. Use when 'machine' simply means a means of transportation.
A large organization or system that operates in a mechanical or impersonal way, e.g., 'political machine', 'war machine'.
A person who performs tasks automatically, without emotion or thought.
機械 (kikai) is the native Japanese word for machine and is used for most mechanical devices. マシン (mashin) is a loanword that often implies a more modern, specialized, or cool image. For computers and vehicles, マシン is more natural. For factory equipment or household appliances, 機械 is standard.
In English, we often call a computer a 'machine', but in Japanese, 機械 usually refers to physical mechanical devices. For computers, use マシン or コンピューター.
This machine is fast, isn't it?
この乗り物は最高だ。
This machine is awesome.
He reformed the company's sales machine.