Translation guide
The English word 'peripheral' can mean 'on the edge/outer part', 'minor/not central', or refer to computer peripherals. This guide helps learners express these meanings naturally in Japanese.
Describing something located at the edge, boundary, or outer area of something.
Describing something of secondary importance, not central to the main issue.
Directly means 'not important'. Simple and clear for saying something is peripheral in importance.
その問題は重要でない。
That issue is peripheral.
Referring to external devices connected to a computer.
The English phrase 'peripheral vision' is not translated using 周辺の. Instead, use 周辺視野 (しゅうへんしや) or more commonly 視野の端 (しやのはし).
視野の端で動きを感じた。
I sensed movement in my peripheral vision.
relations with peripheral countries
Literally 'extremity' or 'tip'. Used for physical ends or far edges of something, like limbs or networks.
神経の末端
peripheral nerves
Means 'remote' or 'frontier'. Used for far-flung, underdeveloped peripheral regions.
辺境の地
a peripheral land
Means 'secondary'. Commonly used in formal or analytical contexts to indicate something is not primary.
それは二次的な問題だ。
It's a peripheral issue.
Literally 'peripheral-like'. Used in academic or technical writing to describe marginal topics.
周辺的な話題
a peripheral topic
The standard term for 'peripheral device'. Used in all contexts.
新しい周辺機器を買った。
I bought a new peripheral.
More formal/technical term for 'peripheral equipment'.
コンピュータの周辺装置
computer peripherals