Translation guide
The scientific study of how living organisms function. In Japanese, the primary term is 生理学 (seirigaku), but depending on context, related words like 生理 (seiri) or 生理機能 (seiri kinō) may be used.
Referring to physiology as a field of study or university subject.
Referring to the physiological functions or processes of a living organism.
Refers to physiological functions or bodily processes. Often used in medical or biological contexts.
運動は生理機能を改善する。
Exercise improves physiological functions.
Using 'physiology' as a euphemism for menstruation, common in some languages. In Japanese, the direct term is used.
The standard term for menstruation. Note that this is the same word as the broad 'physiology' meaning, but context usually makes it clear.
In English, 'physiology' is sometimes used euphemistically for menstruation, but in Japanese, 生理学 (seirigaku) never means menstruation. Use 生理 (seiri) instead.
The standard term for the academic discipline of physiology.
彼は大学で生理学を専攻している。
He is majoring in physiology at university.
生理学の教科書はとても分厚い。
Physiology textbooks are very thick.
Can mean physiology in a broad sense, but more commonly refers to menstruation. Use with caution to avoid ambiguity.
Often interpreted as 'menstruation' in everyday conversation. In scientific contexts, it can mean 'physiology', but 生理学 or 生理機能 is clearer.
植物の生理を研究している。
I am researching plant physiology.
An adjective meaning 'physiological'. Used in compound terms like 生理的反応 (physiological response).
ストレスは生理的反応を引き起こす。
Stress causes physiological responses.
今日は生理でお腹が痛い。
I have a stomachache because of my period today.