Translation guide
The quality of being easily shaped or molded, both physically and metaphorically. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through nouns and adjectives that describe flexibility, adaptability, and malleability.
Describing materials that can be shaped or molded without breaking, such as clay, metal, or plastic.
The most direct translation for physical plasticity, used in scientific and technical contexts.
この素材は高い可塑性を持っている。
This material has high plasticity.
Literally 'flexibility', often used for materials that are pliable and bendable, overlapping with plasticity in everyday language.
このプラスチックは柔軟性に富んでいる。
This plastic is highly flexible.
A technical term in physics and engineering for plasticity, often contrasted with elasticity. Less common in general use.
金属の塑性変形を研究している。
I am studying the plastic deformation of metals.
Describing the ability to change and adapt to new situations, learn new things, or be mentally flexible.
Commonly used for mental flexibility and adaptability, similar to 'flexibility' in English.
彼は考え方に柔軟性がある。
He has plasticity in his way of thinking.
Also used metaphorically for mental plasticity, especially in contexts like brain plasticity (神経可塑性).
Emphasizes adaptability to environments or circumstances, often used for people or systems.
Describing the ability of plans, rules, or systems to be changed or adjusted easily.
Used for flexible systems or plans that can be modified.
この制度にはもっと柔軟性が必要だ。
This system needs more plasticity.
Literally 'changeability', used for things that can be altered or adjusted.
可塑性 (kasosei) is the technical term for plasticity in physics and neuroscience, while 柔軟性 (jūnasei) is the everyday word for flexibility and adaptability. Use 可塑性 for scientific precision, and 柔軟性 for general contexts.
Brain plasticity continues throughout life.
She has high plasticity in adapting to new environments.
スケジュールの可変性を確保する。
Ensure the plasticity of the schedule.