Translation guide
The English word "materials" covers a wide range of meanings, from physical substances and supplies to abstract information and resources. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression based on the intended meaning.
Refers to the raw substances or matter from which things are made, such as wood, metal, or fabric.
General term for materials used to make something, often implying ingredients or components for a specific purpose.
この家具は高品質の材料で作られています。
This furniture is made of high-quality materials.
料理の材料を買いに行きます。
I'm going to buy ingredients for cooking.
Emphasizes the raw, natural quality of the material, often used in artistic or culinary contexts.
このスープは新鮮な素材を使っています。
This soup uses fresh ingredients.
彼は自然素材の服を好む。
He prefers clothes made of natural materials.
Scientific or formal term for matter or substance, not typically used for everyday crafting materials.
この物質は水に溶けやすい。
This substance dissolves easily in water.
Refers to items needed for a particular activity, such as office supplies, art supplies, or building supplies.
Used in compounds to mean 'supplies' for a specific purpose, e.g., 文房具 (stationery), 画材 (art supplies).
事務用品を注文しました。
I ordered office supplies.
画材店で絵の具を買った。
I bought paints at the art supply store.
Often used for industrial or construction materials, like building supplies.
Refers to documents, books, articles, or digital content used for learning or research.
The most common term for reference materials, handouts, or data used for study or meetings.
会議の資料を事前に送ります。
I will send the meeting materials in advance.
この資料は試験に役立つ。
These materials are useful for the exam.
Specifically teaching or learning materials, like textbooks or educational resources.
Refers to human resources, financial resources, or other intangible assets.
Used for natural resources, human resources, or any kind of asset that can be utilized.
限られた資源を有効に使うべきだ。
We should use limited resources effectively.
人材は会社の最も重要な資源です。
Human resources are a company's most important asset.
Refers to textile material used for clothing or upholstery.
Specifically means fabric or cloth, used in sewing and fashion contexts.
このカーテンの生地は厚い。
The material of this curtain is thick.
ドレスに合う生地を選んでください。
Please choose a fabric that suits the dress.
材料 (zairyō) is the most general term for materials used to make something, including ingredients. 素材 (sozai) emphasizes the natural, raw quality and is often used in cooking or art. 原料 (genryō) specifically means raw materials before processing, like crude oil or iron ore.
English 'materials' is very broad. In Japanese, you must choose the specific word that matches the context. Using 材料 for 'study materials' would be unnatural; use 資料 instead.
The price of construction materials is rising.
新しい英語の教材を探しています。
I'm looking for new English teaching materials.