Translation guide
The English word 'metric' can refer to a system of measurement (the metric system) or to a standard for measuring or evaluating something. This guide helps learners express these concepts naturally in Japanese.
Referring to the decimal-based system of measurement (meters, grams, liters, etc.)
The standard term for the metric system. Used in formal and everyday contexts.
The metric system is used in Japan.
Loanword from English, sometimes used in technical contexts or as part of compound terms like 'metric system' (メトリックシステム). Less common than メートル法.
This software supports the metric system.
A quantifiable measure used to assess performance, progress, quality, etc.
Commonly used for 'indicator' or 'metric' in business, economics, and science. Refers to a numerical measure that shows the state or level of something.
This metric indicates customer satisfaction.
We will introduce new metrics to evaluate performance.
Literally 'evaluation criteria'. Used when referring to the standards or benchmarks for judging something. More general than 指標.
Loanword from English 'metrics', used in IT, business, and data analysis. Often refers to a set of measurements or key performance indicators.
This dashboard displays key metrics.
Means 'scale' or 'measure'. Can be used for abstract metrics, but less common in modern business contexts. Often found in academic or psychological measurement.
Referring to a specific unit within the metric system.
In Japanese, you simply use the name of the unit. There is no need for a generic word like 'metric' when referring to a unit. For example, 'metric ton' is メトリックトン or simply トン.
This box weighs 2 kilograms.
He broke the record for the 100-meter dash.
指標 (shihyō) is the native Japanese word for 'indicator' or 'metric' and is widely used in general business and academic contexts. メトリクス (metorikusu) is a loanword from English and is more common in IT, data science, and fields heavily influenced by English terminology. Both are acceptable, but 指標 is safer for general use.
This metric is important.
Monitor system metrics.
While メトリック is understood, the standard term for the metric system is メートル法. Using メトリック alone might cause confusion or sound unnatural.
Switch to the metric system.
We set metrics to measure the success of the project.
They developed a metric to measure happiness.