Translation guide
A small lump or swelling, often used in medical or biological contexts. In Japanese, the translation depends on the context: medical nodules (e.g., in lungs, thyroid) vs. botanical nodules (e.g., root nodules).
To refer to a small, solid, often abnormal mass in the body, such as in the lungs, thyroid, or skin.
The standard medical term for a nodule. Used for lung nodules, thyroid nodules, etc. Neutral and formal.
A small nodule was found in the lung.
Literally 'small nodule'. Used to emphasize the small size, often in radiology reports.
A small nodule was observed in the thyroid on CT.
General term for a lump or mass, often used by patients or in everyday conversation. Can refer to nodules felt under the skin or in breast tissue. Less technical than 結節.
I felt a lump in my breast, so I went to the hospital.
To refer to small swellings on plant roots that contain nitrogen-fixing bacteria.
Specifically refers to root nodules, especially those formed by nitrogen-fixing bacteria in legumes. Used in botany and agriculture.
Root nodules form on the roots of leguminous plants.
Alternate kanji for 根粒, same reading and meaning. Slightly more technical or older usage.
To refer to a small, rounded mineral concretion in rock.
Used for geological concretions or nodules, such as chert nodules or manganese nodules.
Manganese nodules are widely distributed on the ocean floor.
Loanword from English 'nodule', used in geology and sometimes in medicine. Common in academic contexts.
This stratum contains chert nodules.
結節 is the formal medical term for a nodule, often used in imaging reports and diagnoses. しこり is a more general, patient-friendly term for any palpable lump, and can be used in everyday conversation. Use 結節 in technical contexts and しこり when describing symptoms to a doctor or in casual speech.
In everyday English, 'nodule' is rare. If you are describing a lump you can feel, しこり is more natural than 結節. Using 結節 in casual conversation may sound overly clinical.
Root nodule bacteria fix atmospheric nitrogen.