Translation guide
The English word 'network' covers several distinct concepts: a system of interconnected things (like roads or computers), a group of people with connections, and the act of building those connections. Japanese uses different words for each, and the verb 'to network' often requires a phrase rather than a single word.
Referring to a physical or technical system of interconnected parts, such as roads, railways, computer networks, or electrical grids.
The most common and versatile loanword for 'network' in technical and general contexts. Used for computer networks, transportation networks, and abstract systems.
この会社は世界中にネットワークを持っています。
This company has a network all over the world.
コンピューターネットワークの設定を確認してください。
Please check the computer network settings.
Literally 'net' or 'mesh', used in compound words to describe networks like railway networks or communication networks. Often appears as a suffix.
鉄道網が発達している。
The railway network is well-developed.
情報網を整備する必要がある。
We need to establish an information network.
Specifically refers to a communication line or circuit, often used in the context of telephone or internet connections.
ネットワーク回線が混雑している。
The network line is congested.
Referring to a group of people who are connected, such as a social circle, professional contacts, or support system.
Refers to personal connections or a network of contacts, especially in business or professional contexts. Implies a web of relationships that can be leveraged.
彼は広い人脈を持っている。
He has a wide network of contacts.
人脈を広げるために交流会に参加した。
I attended a networking event to expand my network.
Means 'companions' or 'group of friends/colleagues'. Can imply a close-knit network, but less formal than 人脈.
The action of meeting people and building relationships, especially for professional or social gain.
Literally 'to expand one's network of contacts'. The most natural way to express 'to network' in a professional context.
彼はいつも人脈を広げようとしている。
He is always trying to network.
Literally 'to build a network of contacts'. Similar to 人脈を広げる, but emphasizes creating new connections rather than expanding existing ones.
新しい業界で人脈を作るのは大変だ。
It's tough to network in a new industry.
Means 'to interact' or 'to exchange'. Can be used for networking in a broader sense, including social and cultural exchange.
会議で多くの専門家と交流した。
I networked with many experts at the conference.
Slangy expression meaning 'to make connections', often with a slightly negative connotation of using connections for personal gain.
彼はコネを作って就職したらしい。
Apparently he got the job through networking (using connections).
A system for distributing television or radio programs.
Specifically refers to a broadcasting network.
全国放送網でそのニュースが流れた。
The news was broadcast on the national network.
While 網 means 'net' or 'network' in compounds, using it alone to mean a social or computer network sounds unnatural. Stick to ネットワーク or 人脈 for those meanings.
✕ 友達の網
Literal translation for 'network of friends' (unnatural)
○ 友達のネットワーク
Natural way to say 'network of friends'
人脈 is specifically about personal connections that can be useful, often in business. ネットワーク is broader and can include online social networks, support groups, etc. Use 人脈 when emphasizing the utility of connections.
彼は政界に強い人脈がある。
He has strong connections in the political world.
被災者支援のネットワークを立ち上げた。
We set up a network to support disaster victims.
仕事を見つけるために、もっと人脈を広げないと。
I need to network more to find a job.
ネットワークがダウンしています。
The network is down.
彼女には強力な支援ネットワークがある。
She has a strong support network.
Also used for social or professional networks, especially in modern contexts like social media or business ecosystems.
SNSで新しいネットワークを作った。
I built a new network on social media.
困ったときに助けてくれる仲間がいる。
I have a network of friends who help me when I'm in trouble.
Also used for TV networks, especially in the context of American networks.
その番組は主要ネットワークで放送されている。
The show is broadcast on a major network.