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.
parabola (math)
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.
This graph draws a parabola.
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.
A parabolic antenna has the shape of a parabola.
Means 'parabolic' or 'parabola-shaped', used as a modifier.
It draws a parabolic trajectory.
A physical object with a parabolic shape, such as a satellite dish or reflector.
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.
It collects light using a parabolic mirror.