Translation guide
The English word 'mode' covers several distinct concepts: a method or manner of doing something, a setting on a device, a state of operation, and specialized uses in music, statistics, and grammar. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each meaning.
Expressing the way something is done, often in formal or technical contexts.
General word for 'method' or 'way'. Suitable for most contexts.
We developed a new mode of transportation.
Often used for systems, formats, or established methods, like a payment method or communication system.
This mode of payment is convenient.
Refers to a style, form, or fixed pattern, often in art, architecture, or formal procedures.
The architectural mode is unique.
Referring to a selectable operating state, such as on a camera, phone, or appliance.
Describing a system's current state, such as 'standby mode' or 'emergency mode'.
Referring to a specific scale type in music theory, like major or minor.
The value that appears most often in a data set.
A category of verb forms expressing modality, such as indicative, subjunctive, or imperative.
The linguistic term for 'mood' (e.g., 仮定法 subjunctive mood). Note: 'mode' is sometimes used synonymously with 'mood' in grammar.
The subjunctive mood is also called the subjunctive mode in English.
方法 (ほうほう) is the most general 'method'. 方式 (ほうしき) implies a systematic or established method, often used for technical systems. 様式 (ようしき) refers to a fixed style or form, especially in arts or formal documents.
Please select a payment method.
Introduce a new communication mode.
Fill out according to the application form's format.
While モード is common for device settings, using it for abstract 'methods' can sound unnatural. Stick to 方法 or 方式 for non-device contexts.
カメラの設定を変える。
Change the camera mode.
Switch to emergency mode.
This song is in Mixolydian mode.
The mode is the most frequent value.