Translation guide
The English word 'mutation' covers biological genetic changes, figurative changes, and linguistic sound changes. In Japanese, different words are used depending on the context.
A change in the DNA sequence of an organism, often leading to a new trait or disease.
A significant change in form, nature, or character, often dramatic.
A change in a sound in a word due to phonetic environment, like consonant mutation in Celtic languages.
General term for sound change in linguistics. Can be specified further with prefixes.
ケルト語の子音変異は音変化の一種だ。
Celtic consonant mutation is a type of sound change.
The standard term for genetic mutation in biology. Used for both the process and the result.
この突然変異は遺伝する。
This mutation is inherited.
ウイルスの突然変異が心配されている。
Mutations of the virus are a concern.
Shorter form often used in compounds or technical contexts, like 'gene mutation' (遺伝子変異).
遺伝子変異が原因だ。
A gene mutation is the cause.
Loanword from English, used in some scientific or gaming contexts, but not as common as the native terms.
このゲームではミューテーションが重要だ。
Mutations are important in this game.
Implies a complete transformation in appearance or character, often used for people, organizations, or landscapes.
街は大きく変貌した。
The city underwent a major mutation.
General word for change. Can be used for mutation in a broad sense, but lacks the dramatic nuance.
社会の変化は急速だ。
The mutation of society is rapid.
Used for a shift or conversion, like a change in policy or direction. Not a direct equivalent for 'mutation' but can fit in some contexts.
政策の大転換が起きた。
A major mutation in policy occurred.
Specifically 'consonant mutation', used in linguistics for languages like Welsh or Irish.
ウェールズ語には子音変異がある。
Welsh has consonant mutation.