Translation guide
The English word 'organ' has several distinct meanings: a body part, a musical instrument, an organization/entity, and a publication. Each requires a different Japanese word. This guide helps learners choose the right one.
Referring to an internal organ of a living body (heart, liver, etc.)
General term for internal organs. Used in medical and everyday contexts.
Organ transplants save many lives.
He became an organ donor.
Biological term for an organ as a functional unit. Often used in scientific contexts.
The digestive organs break down food.
Referring to a keyboard instrument that produces sound through pipes or electronics
Referring to an official group or body that performs a specific function, often within a larger system
Used for institutions, agencies, or bodies with a specific role, such as government organs or administrative organs.
That organ is responsible for environmental protection.
The legislative organ enacts laws.
A more general word for organization, group, or system. Can be used for any organized body, but '機関' is more precise for official organs.
Referring to a newspaper, magazine, or journal that serves as a mouthpiece for an organization
Both are read きかん, but 器官 means a biological organ, while 機関 means an institutional organ or engine. Context usually makes it clear, but be careful in writing.
In English, 'organ' can mean a person's voice, especially in a literary sense. In Japanese, this is not directly translated as 臓器 or 機関. Instead, use 声 (こえ) or a descriptive phrase.
His powerful organ resounded.
She is good at playing the organ.
Specifically a pipe organ, emphasizing the traditional large instrument with pipes.
That cathedral has a huge pipe organ.
That organ has an international network.
学会の機関誌を定期購読している。
I subscribe to the academic society's organ.