Translation guide
The English word 'pipeline' has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common ones for learners: a physical pipe system, a metaphorical process or supply chain, and computing data pipelines.
A system of pipes for transporting liquids or gases over long distances.
A system or process through which something is supplied, developed, or moved forward, such as a talent pipeline or product pipeline.
A series of data processing steps, often in software or data engineering.
When 'pipeline' means a process or supply chain, avoid directly translating to physical pipe words like 輸送管. Use パイプライン or rephrase with terms like 供給経路 or 開発段階 depending on context.
The direct loanword, widely understood for large-scale oil/gas pipelines.
A new pipeline is under construction.
A more technical term meaning 'transport pipe', used in engineering contexts.
This pipeline carries natural gas.
Refers to a conduit or pipe, often for water or gas, but less common for long-distance pipelines.
The pipeline needs inspection.
The loanword is also used metaphorically in business and tech, similar to English.
We need to strengthen the new product pipeline.
Means 'supply route' or 'supply chain', often used for physical goods but can be extended metaphorically.
Secure the talent pipeline.
Literally 'development stage', used when referring to a pipeline of projects in progress.
Several projects are in the pipeline.
The standard term in IT contexts, directly borrowed from English.
Build a data pipeline.
Specifically 'processing pipeline', used when emphasizing the processing aspect.
Optimize the image processing pipeline.