Translation guide
The English word "masses" can refer to large groups of ordinary people, large quantities of things, or physical bulk. This guide covers how to express these ideas naturally in Japanese.
Referring to the common people as a large group, often in contrast to elites or leaders.
The most direct equivalent for 'the masses' in the sense of the general public. Often used in political or sociological contexts.
We must not ignore the opinions of the masses.
Refers to common people, often with a nuance of ordinary folks as opposed to the upper class or nobility. Slightly more folksy than 大衆.
It's important to understand the lives of the masses.
Similar to 大衆 but often used in historical or revolutionary contexts, emphasizing the people as a political force.
The masses rose up.
Literally 'general masses', a common compound emphasizing the broad public.
It was widely accepted by the masses.
Expressing that there is a lot of something, often in bulk or in great numbers.
Means 'large quantity' or 'mass'. Used for both countable and uncountable things.
Process masses of data.
mass production
Means 'large number', typically for countable items. Often used in formal contexts.
A very common, casual way to say 'a lot' or 'many'. Not a direct translation of 'masses' but often used in similar contexts.
Describing a physical mass, like a lump or a large volume of material.
Means 'lump', 'mass', or 'clump'. Used for solid, often shapeless objects.
a mass of rock
Masses of clouds cover the sky.
Scientific term for 'mass' in physics. Not used for general 'masses' of people or things.
Means 'group' or 'collective body'. Can be used for a mass of people, but emphasizes the group aspect rather than sheer numbers.
When referring to 'the masses' as ordinary people, do not use 塊 (かたまり) or 大量 (たいりょう), as these refer to physical lumps or large quantities. Use 大衆 (たいしゅう) or 庶民 (しょみん) instead.
大衆 is the most neutral and common term for 'the masses' in modern contexts. 庶民 has a nuance of 'common folk' and can be slightly warmer. 民衆 often appears in historical or revolutionary contexts, emphasizing the people's power.
Masses of people gathered.
たくさんの本を読んだ。
I read masses of books.
物体の質量を測る。
Measure the mass of an object.
人々の集団が広場にいた。
A mass of people was in the square.