Translation guide
A parabola is a U-shaped curve, often described in math and physics. In Japanese, the most common term is 放物線 (ほうぶつせん), but other expressions exist for specific contexts.
The geometric shape defined by a quadratic function or the path of a projectile under uniform gravity.
The standard mathematical term for a parabola. Used in textbooks, academic writing, and everyday descriptions of the shape.
このグラフは放物線を描いています。
This graph draws a parabola.
二次関数のグラフは放物線になります。
The graph of a quadratic function becomes a parabola.
Loanword from English, often used in technical or physics contexts, such as parabolic antennas or mirrors. Less common in pure math.
パラボラアンテナは放物線の形をしています。
A parabolic antenna has the shape of a parabola.
Means 'parabolic' or 'parabola-shaped', used as a modifier.
放物線状の軌道を描く。
It draws a parabolic trajectory.
A physical object with a parabolic shape, such as a satellite dish or reflector.
Common term for a parabolic antenna (satellite dish). Often shortened to パラボラ in casual speech.
屋根にパラボラアンテナが設置されている。
A parabolic antenna is installed on the roof.
Technical term for a parabolic mirror, used in optics or telescopes.
放物面鏡を使って光を集める。
It collects light using a parabolic mirror.
放物線 is the native Japanese term and is preferred in mathematics and formal writing. パラボラ is a loanword used mainly for physical devices like antennas or mirrors, and occasionally in physics. Using パラボラ for the mathematical curve is not wrong but sounds slightly technical or influenced by English.