Translation guide
The concept of polymorphism appears in biology, chemistry, and computer science. This guide focuses on the most common uses for English-speaking learners: object-oriented programming and crystallography. In programming, it is usually translated with the katakana term ポリモーフィズム or described as 多態性. In materials science, 多形 is standard. Other meanings are niche.
The ability of different classes to respond to the same method call in their own way.
The standard borrowed term in software engineering. Widely understood among developers.
ポリモーフィズムはオブジェクト指向の重要な概念です。
Polymorphism is an important concept in object-oriented programming.
A native Japanese term sometimes used in textbooks or formal documentation. Less common in everyday developer conversation.
多態性を利用してコードの再利用性を高める。
Use polymorphism to increase code reusability.
Occasionally seen in older or translated texts, but ポリモーフィズム is preferred.
多相性という言葉はあまり使われない。
The term 多相性 is not used much.
The ability of a solid material to exist in more than one crystal structure.
The standard term in chemistry and materials science for polymorphism of crystals.
炭酸カルシウムには多形が存在する。
Calcium carbonate exhibits polymorphism.
Katakana form used in some scientific contexts, but 多形 is more common.
この結晶はポリモルフィズムを示す。
This crystal shows polymorphism.
The occurrence of different forms among members of a population, such as color morphs.
Used for genetic polymorphism within a species.
この遺伝子には多型が見られる。
This gene shows polymorphism.
Sometimes used interchangeably with 多型, but 多型 is more precise for genetic variation.
この種には色彩の多形が存在する。
This species exhibits color polymorphism.
The quality or state of existing in several different forms.
Means 'diversity' or 'variety'. Use this for non-technical contexts where 'polymorphism' is used loosely.
文化の多様性は重要だ。
Cultural polymorphism is important.
A descriptive phrase meaning 'having multiple forms'. Use when a precise technical term is not needed.
この物質は複数の形態を持つことが知られている。
This substance is known to exhibit polymorphism.
In Japanese, 多形 (takei) is used for crystal polymorphism, while 多型 (takei) is used for genetic polymorphism. They are homophones but written with different kanji. Using the wrong one can cause confusion in scientific contexts.
In software development, ポリモーフィズム is the safest choice. Using 多態性 may sound overly academic or translated. Most Japanese developers use the English loanword.