Translation guide
The series of steps or methods used to produce goods, from raw materials to finished products. In Japanese, the term varies depending on whether you refer to the overall production method, the specific steps, or the industrial system.
To refer to the overall method or system by which something is manufactured.
The most common and neutral term for 'manufacturing process,' referring to the sequence of steps in production.
この製品の製造工程は複雑です。
The manufacturing process for this product is complex.
Similar to 製造工程 but often used in broader contexts, including agricultural or resource extraction processes.
生産工程の効率化が求められています。
Efficiency improvements in the production process are required.
A loanword from English, commonly used in technical or business contexts.
新しい製造プロセスを導入しました。
We introduced a new manufacturing process.
To refer to a particular method or technique used in manufacturing, such as casting, molding, or machining.
Refers to a specific manufacturing method or recipe, often used for traditional or proprietary techniques.
この酒の製法は門外不出です。
The manufacturing method for this sake is a closely guarded secret.
Specifically refers to processing or fabrication methods, often for materials like metal or plastic.
新しい加工法でコストを削減しました。
We reduced costs with a new processing method.
To refer to the entire system of manufacturing, including equipment, workflow, and management, often in an industrial engineering context.
Refers to the production system as a whole, including machinery, layout, and control systems.
この工場の生産システムは最新です。
This factory's production system is state-of-the-art.
Specifically refers to the manufacturing line or assembly line.
製造ラインを自動化しました。
We automated the manufacturing line.
To refer to a manufacturing process that is artisanal or not fully automated, often emphasizing craftsmanship.
Literally 'handmade,' used for products made manually or in small quantities, often implying quality and care.
この家具はすべて手作りです。
This furniture is all handmade.
A more formal phrase meaning 'manufacturing by manual labor.'
手作業による製造には時間がかかります。
Manufacturing by hand takes time.
製造工程 (seizō kōtei) is more specific to manufacturing and fabrication, while 生産工程 (seisan kōtei) can include broader production activities like agriculture or mining. In most industrial contexts, they are interchangeable, but 製造工程 is slightly more common for discrete goods.
The English word 'process' can be translated as 過程 (katei) or プロセス (purosesu), but in manufacturing contexts, 工程 (kōtei) is the standard term. Using 過程 may sound unnatural or overly abstract.