Translation guide
Describes something created by humans rather than occurring naturally. Covers physical objects, structures, materials, and abstract concepts like disasters or environments.
Describing something made by people, not natural
The most common and neutral way to say 'man-made' for objects, structures, materials, etc. Attaches directly to nouns.
This is a man-made lake.
We use man-made materials.
Similar to 人工の, but often used for things like '人造人間' (android) or '人造宝石' (synthetic gem). Slightly more technical or sci-fi nuance.
Man-made diamonds are cheaper than natural ones.
Means 'artificial' or 'caused by humans', often used for abstract things like errors, disasters, or changes. Not for physical objects.
The accident was caused by a man-made error.
Referring to a disaster or crisis caused by human activity
Literally 'human disaster'. Used for man-made calamities like industrial accidents, wars, or environmental destruction, often contrasted with 天災 (natural disaster).
This accident is not a natural disaster but a man-made one.
A more formal term for 'man-made disaster', often used in reports or news.
Describing an environment or landscape altered or created by humans
Referring to rules, systems, or concepts created by humans
人工 (jinkō) is the most common for physical man-made objects. 人造 (jinzō) is often used in compounds like 人造人間 (android) or for synthetic gems. 人為的 (jin'iteki) is for abstract or event-based human causes, like errors or disasters.
The English 'man' in 'man-made' refers to humanity, not males. Do not translate literally as 男が作った. Use 人工 or 人間が作った instead.
The risk of man-made disasters is increasing.
This forest has some man-made parts.