Translation guide
The English word 'molding' can refer to a decorative strip of material (like on walls or furniture), the process of shaping something using a mold, or something that has been formed in a mold. This guide helps learners express these concepts naturally in Japanese.
Referring to a decorative strip of wood, plaster, or other material used to ornament walls, ceilings, or furniture.
The most direct loanword for decorative molding in architecture and interior design. Widely understood in contexts like home renovation or furniture making.
Install molding on the wall.
Refers specifically to the molding that runs along the top of a wall where it meets the ceiling (crown molding). Common in Japanese architecture.
Adding crown molding tightens up the look of a room.
A molding used to cover the joint between different flooring materials or between floor and wall. More technical term used in construction.
Put a transition molding between the hardwood floor and tatami.
The act or process of shaping a material by pouring or pressing it into a mold.
General term for molding or forming materials, especially plastics, metals, or ceramics. Used in manufacturing contexts.
Injection molding machines are used for plastic molding.
Specifically refers to casting metal by pouring molten metal into a mold. Not used for plastics or other materials.
A more specific term emphasizing the use of a mold (型). Often used in compound words like 射出成形 (injection molding).
An object that has been formed in a mold.
成形 (seikei) is the broadest term for molding/shaping materials. 鋳造 (chuuzou) is specifically for casting metal. モールディング (moorudingu) is a loanword primarily used for decorative architectural molding, not for the manufacturing process.
Plastic molding and metal casting are different techniques.
While モールディング is used for decorative trim, it is not used for the industrial process of molding materials. Use 成形 or more specific terms instead.
この部品は鋳造で作られている。
This part is made by casting (molding).
Molding technology is advancing.
この鋳物のフライパンは重い。
This cast iron skillet is heavy.