Translation guide
The study of organisms and natural objects, especially in their natural environments, often focusing on observation rather than experimentation. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through specific terms depending on context, such as academic fields, museum names, or general nature study.
Referring to natural history as a scientific discipline, often in academic or formal contexts.
The standard term for natural history as an academic field, encompassing geology, biology, and ecology. Commonly used in university departments and research contexts.
He is majoring in natural history at university.
An older term for natural history, often associated with the study of a wide range of natural objects, including plants, animals, minerals, and artifacts. Still used in historical contexts or museum names.
Natural history flourished in the 18th century.
Referring to a natural history museum or similar institution.
The standard translation for 'natural history museum'. Used in official names.
The Natural History Museum in London is famous for its dinosaur exhibits.
Japan's National Museum of Nature and Science in Tokyo, often referred to as a natural history museum. Note that its English name does not include 'natural history', but it serves a similar function.
Referring to the activity of observing and learning about plants, animals, and natural environments, often as a hobby or informal education.
Literally 'nature observation'. Used for activities like birdwatching, plant identification, or nature walks. More common in everyday contexts than the academic terms.
I went on a nature observation outing with the kids on the weekend.
A more casual term, often used in educational settings for children, meaning 'investigating living things'. It implies hands-on learning about animals and plants.
Referring to a book, TV show, or documentary about natural history.
Used in titles of books or documentaries, often as a direct translation. For example, 'Natural History' by Pliny the Elder is translated as 『博物誌』, but modern works may use 『自然史』.
This book called 'Natural History' is very detailed.
The loanword for 'nature documentary', often used for TV programs about natural history. While not a direct translation, it is the common term for such media.
自然史 (shizenshi) is the modern term for natural history as a science, while 博物学 (hakubutsugaku) is the historical term that includes a broader range of natural and cultural artifacts. In contemporary usage, 自然史 is preferred for academic contexts, but 博物学 appears in museum names and historical references.
When talking about observing nature as a hobby or educational activity, 自然観察 (shizen kansatsu) is more natural than 自然史. It directly conveys the act of observing and learning about nature.
The National Museum of Nature and Science is in Ueno.
For my summer vacation project, I did a study of living things.
He often watches natural history documentaries.