Translation guide
The English word 'nature' covers several distinct concepts: the natural world (plants, animals, landscapes), the inherent character or quality of something, and a type or kind. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each meaning.
Referring to the outdoors, environment, plants, animals, landscapes, and natural phenomena, often in contrast to human-made things.
The most common and general word for 'nature' as the natural world. Used in everyday conversation and writing.
I like nature.
Let's protect nature.
Emphasizes 'great nature' or 'the great outdoors', often used for vast, untouched landscapes.
The great nature of Hokkaido is wonderful.
Refers to the 'natural environment', often used in environmental or scientific contexts.
We must not destroy the natural environment.
Describing the basic, essential, or innate character of a person, thing, or phenomenon.
The most common word for the inherent nature or property of something. Used for both concrete and abstract things.
We need to understand the nature of this problem.
Refers to the 'essence' or 'true nature' of something, often used in philosophical or deep discussions.
Specifically refers to a person's character, personality, or disposition. Not used for inanimate objects.
Refers to innate nature, inborn qualities, or natural talent. Somewhat literary.
Used in phrases like 'something of that nature' or 'things of a similar nature' to indicate a category.
A common pattern meaning 'something like ~' or 'things of that nature'. The 〜 is replaced by a noun or description.
Please put documents and things of that nature here.
A more formal pattern meaning 'things of the sort/kind of ~'. Used in writing or formal speech.
While 自然 (shizen) means 'nature' as the outdoors, it is not used to describe a person's character. Use 性格 (seikaku) or 性質 (seishitsu) instead.
He has a gentle nature. (incorrect)
He has a gentle nature. (correct)
彼は性質が優しい。
He has a gentle nature.
人間の本質とは何か。
What is the nature of human beings?
彼女は明るい性格だ。
She has a cheerful nature.
彼には音楽の天性がある。
He has a natural gift for music.
Fraud and crimes of that nature are increasing.