Translation guide
The English word "organism" refers to any individual living thing, from bacteria to humans. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 生物 (seibutsu), but depending on context, other terms like 有機体 (yūkitai) or 生命体 (seimeitai) may be used. This guide helps you choose the right word based on meaning and register.
To refer to any individual living entity, such as animals, plants, or microorganisms, in a general or scientific context.
The standard, all-purpose word for 'organism' or 'living thing'. Used in biology, education, and daily conversation. Covers all life forms.
Many organisms live in this pond.
Learn about the evolution of organisms.
A more colloquial term for 'living thing' or 'creature'. Often used for animals or visible life, less formal than 生物. Not typically used for microorganisms.
Children love living things.
To emphasize the organized, systemic nature of a living body, often in scientific or philosophical contexts.
A technical term for 'organism' that highlights organic structure and function. Common in biology, chemistry, and systems theory. More formal than 生物.
The cell is the basic unit of an organism.
Literally 'life form'. Used in science fiction, astrobiology, or when discussing the concept of life itself. Can sound slightly dramatic or speculative.
To refer specifically to microscopic organisms, often in medical or hygiene contexts.
The standard term for 'microorganism'. Used in science, medicine, and everyday contexts when talking about germs or bacteria.
Many microorganisms are attached to your hands.
Specifically 'bacteria'. Often used in medical or hygiene contexts. Not a direct synonym for all microorganisms, but commonly used when the type is bacterial.
生物 (seibutsu) is the formal, scientific term for any organism, including plants and microorganisms. 生き物 (ikimono) is more casual and often implies animals or creatures you can see. Use 生物 for academic writing or when precision is needed; use 生き物 in everyday talk about animals or nature.
有機体 (yūkitai) is a technical term and can sound overly academic or stiff in casual conversation. Stick to 生物 unless you are discussing systems biology or organic chemistry.
Do other organisms exist in space?
この薬は細菌を殺す。
This medicine kills bacteria.