Translation guide
The English word 'mass' covers several distinct concepts: a large quantity or amount, the physical property of matter, a large group of people, and the Christian religious ceremony. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each meaning.
Expressing a large amount, volume, or bulk of something, often uncountable or abstract.
Most common word for 'large quantity/amount'. Used for physical objects, substances, data, etc.
Process a mass of data.
A large amount of water is needed.
Similar to 大量, but slightly more formal or technical. Often used in written contexts.
Handle a mass of information.
Means 'lump' or 'mass' as a solid, cohesive chunk. Not for abstract quantities.
a mass of clay
Referring to a crowd, multitude, or the general population.
The general public, the masses. Often used in social or political contexts.
Listen to the opinion of the masses.
A crowd, a throng of people gathered in one place.
The common people, the populace. Similar to 大衆 but with a nuance of 'ordinary citizens'.
The scientific concept of mass, measured in kilograms.
The Christian celebration of the Eucharist.
The standard term for the Catholic Mass. Loanword from Latin 'missa'.
Go to Mass on Sunday.
The katakana word マス (masu) usually means 'mass media' (マスコミ) or a square wooden measuring cup. It does not mean 'mass' in the sense of quantity or physics.
群衆が広場に集まった。
A mass of people gathered in the square.
民衆の声を政治に反映させる。
Reflect the voice of the masses in politics.