Translation guide
The English word "parts" can refer to components of a machine, spare parts, or roles in a performance. This guide covers the most common ways to express these meanings in Japanese.
Referring to the individual pieces that make up a mechanical or electronic device.
The most common and general term for parts of a machine, device, or vehicle. Used in technical and everyday contexts.
この車の部品は高い。
The parts for this car are expensive.
部品を交換する必要がある。
We need to replace the parts.
Loanword from English, commonly used for parts in hobbies, DIY, or when assembling things. Slightly more casual than 部品.
このパーツはどこで買えますか？
Where can I buy these parts?
Often used in construction or manufacturing for materials and parts. More technical.
建築部材の調達が遅れている。
The procurement of building parts is delayed.
Specifically referring to parts kept for repair or replacement.
Literally 'replacement parts'. Used when talking about parts for repair.
交換部品は在庫がありますか？
Do you have replacement parts in stock?
From 'spare parts'. Common in automotive and machinery contexts.
スペアパーツを注文した。
I ordered spare parts.
Referring to the characters or roles actors play.
The standard word for a role or part in a performance. Can be used for theater, film, TV, etc.
彼は主役を演じた。
He played the lead part.
どの役をやりたいですか？
Which part do you want to play?
Refers to the type or nature of a role, often emphasizing character traits.
Referring to portions or sections of something, like a book, body, or region.
General word for 'part' or 'portion'. Used for abstract divisions, body parts, sections of a document, etc.
この部分が一番重要です。
This part is the most important.
体の部分の名前を覚えてください。
Please memorize the names of body parts.
Means 'a part' or 'one part', often implying a fraction or segment of a whole.
部品 is the standard Japanese word for mechanical or electronic parts and is used in formal and technical contexts. パーツ is a loanword that feels more casual and is often used in hobbies, gaming, or DIY. In professional engineering, stick with 部品.
While 部分 can mean 'part' of the body, specific body parts usually have dedicated names (e.g., 腕 for arm, 脚 for leg). Using 部分 for a specific limb can sound unnatural. Use 部分 for general areas or when listing components.
彼女は難しい役柄に挑戦した。
She took on a difficult part.
I only know part of the story.