Translation guide
The English word 'mechanism' refers to a system of parts working together, a process or method, or a way something works. This guide helps learners express these ideas naturally in Japanese.
A system of moving parts in a machine or device.
The most direct translation for a physical mechanism, such as in machinery or engineering. Neutral and widely used.
この時計の機構は非常に精密だ。
The mechanism of this watch is extremely precise.
Commonly used for how something is put together or works, often with a focus on structure or design. Slightly more everyday than 機構.
このおもちゃの仕組みを説明して。
Explain the mechanism of this toy.
Loanword from English, often used in technical or scientific contexts. Can sound slightly more modern or specialized.
この機械のメカニズムは複雑だ。
The mechanism of this machine is complex.
A systematic process, procedure, or way something functions, often abstract.
The most versatile word for describing how a system, organization, or process works. Suitable for both concrete and abstract mechanisms.
この制度の仕組みを教えてください。
Please explain the mechanism of this system.
Often used in academic, scientific, or business contexts to describe underlying processes or causal mechanisms.
Can be used for abstract systems, especially in formal or technical writing, but 仕組み is more common in everyday speech.
Literally refers to a mechanical contrivance or trick, but can be used metaphorically for a clever or hidden mechanism behind something. Often has a nuance of ingenuity or behind-the-scenes workings.
A physiological, biochemical, or natural process.
Standard in scientific contexts for biological or chemical mechanisms.
この薬の作用メカニズムはまだ解明されていない。
The mechanism of action of this drug has not yet been elucidated.
Used in formal biological contexts, e.g., 'defense mechanism' (防御機構).
Can be used in less technical explanations, e.g., in educational materials.
An unconscious mental process that protects an individual.
The standard term in psychology for 'defense mechanism'.
抑圧は防衛機制の一つだ。
Repression is one of the defense mechanisms.
A more general term for psychological mechanism.
その行動の背後にある心理的メカニズムを探る。
Explore the psychological mechanism behind that behavior.
仕組み (しくみ) is the most common and versatile word for 'mechanism' in everyday Japanese, covering both physical and abstract systems. 機構 (きこう) is more formal and often used for organizational or mechanical structures. メカニズム is a loanword that feels technical or scientific, and is common in academic contexts.
When 'mechanism' means a process or method, directly translating to 機械 (machine) is incorrect. Use 仕組み or メカニズム instead.
経済のメカニズムを理解するのは難しい。
Understanding the mechanism of the economy is difficult.
Analyze the role of the market mechanism.
彼の成功のからくりを知りたい。
I want to know the mechanism behind his success.
The immune mechanism attacks the virus.
Learn the mechanism of human digestion.