Translation guide
A film containing microphotographs of documents, used for archiving. In Japanese, the loanword マイクロフィルム is standard, but related terms for the medium, equipment, and process are also useful.
マイクロフィルム
microfilm (medium)
Referring to the film itself that contains reduced-size images of documents.
The standard loanword for microfilm, used in libraries, archives, and offices.
この新聞はマイクロフィルムで保存されています。
This newspaper is preserved on microfilm.
A more descriptive term, literally 'microphotograph film'. Less common but clarifies the nature of the film.
古文書のマイクロ写真フィルムを閲覧する。
View microfilm of ancient documents.
Referring to the technology, process, or system of using microfilm for archiving.
Used when talking about the microfilm system as a whole, including equipment and processes.
図書館のマイクロフィルムシステムが更新された。
The library's microfilm system was updated.
Specifically refers to microfilm technology.
マイクロフィルム技術は文書保存に役立つ。
Microfilm technology is useful for document preservation.
The machine used to view or print from microfilm.
A microfilm reader, the device for viewing microfilm images.
マイクロフィルムリーダーで記事を探す。
Search for articles using a microfilm reader.
A microfilm printer, which can print copies from microfilm.
マイクロフィルムプリンターでコピーを取る。
Make a copy using the microfilm printer.
A combined reader-printer device, often found in libraries.
この機種はマイクロフィルムリーダープリンターです。
This model is a microfilm reader-printer.
The action of recording documents onto microfilm.
The most natural way to say 'to microfilm' something, literally 'to photograph onto microfilm'.
重要な書類をマイクロフィルムに撮影する。
Microfilm important documents.
Means 'to convert to microfilm' or 'to microfilm', often used for projects or collections.
古い記録をマイクロフィルム化する計画がある。
There is a plan to microfilm old records.
マイクロフィルム is universally understood in Japanese. There is no native Japanese word for this concept, so the loanword is the safest choice in all contexts.