Translation guide
The English word 'motor' refers to a machine that converts energy into motion, especially electrical energy into mechanical rotation. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is モーター, a loanword used for electric motors in appliances, vehicles, and machinery. For engines that burn fuel, エンジン is used. There are also native terms like 電動機 (technical) and 原動機 (broad, including engines). This guide helps learners choose the right word based on context.
To refer to a device that converts electrical energy into rotational motion, commonly found in fans, pumps, power tools, and electric vehicles.
The most common and natural word for an electric motor in everyday contexts. Used in appliances, toys, electric vehicles, and industrial equipment.
The motor of this fan is quiet.
Electric cars use motors.
A technical term for an electric motor, used in engineering or formal specifications. Not common in daily conversation.
To refer to a machine that burns fuel to produce motion, typically in cars, motorcycles, boats, or airplanes.
The standard word for an internal combustion engine. Used for cars, motorcycles, airplanes, and other fuel-powered vehicles.
The car engine won't start.
A broad technical term for any prime mover, including engines and motors. Rarely used in everyday language.
To describe something that provides energy, motivation, or impetus, like 'the motor of the economy' or 'a motor for change'.
Means 'driving force' or 'motive power'. Used figuratively for people, ideas, or economic forces.
She is the driving force behind the team.
Sometimes used metaphorically in business or technology contexts, similar to English 'motor', but less common than 原動力.
モーター refers specifically to an electric motor, while エンジン refers to an internal combustion engine. In Japanese, these are distinct and not interchangeable. Use モーター for battery-powered or electric devices, and エンジン for gasoline or diesel engines.
This toy runs on a motor.
This car runs on an engine.
In English, 'motor' can sometimes refer to a car engine (e.g., 'motor vehicle'), but in Japanese, モーター almost always means an electric motor. Using モーター for a gasoline engine sounds unnatural. Use エンジン instead.
The motor of the washing machine broke.
He started the motor of the boat.
この工場では大型の電動機を使用しています。
This factory uses large electric motors.
This motorcycle's engine is running well.
Types of prime movers include internal combustion engines and electric motors.
Technological innovation is the motor of economic growth.
このプロジェクトのモーター役を務める。
He acts as the motor of this project.