Translation guide
The English word 'reflexes' refers to automatic physical reactions, quick instinctive responses, or the general concept of reflex actions. This guide helps learners express these ideas naturally in Japanese.
Describing involuntary physical reactions, such as a knee-jerk reflex or blinking.
The standard term for a physiological reflex. Used in medical and everyday contexts.
The patellar reflex is often checked during physical exams.
When you touch something hot, you pull your hand back by reflex.
Literally 'reflex nerves', often used to describe someone's quickness of reflexes, especially in sports or driving.
He has sharp reflexes, so he's a good driver.
Referring to fast, almost automatic reactions in non-physical contexts, like answering quickly or dodging a question.
An adjective meaning 'reflexive' or 'instinctive', used for actions done without thinking.
I was surprised by his reflexive answer.
An adverb meaning 'instantly' or 'on the spur of the moment', often used to describe a quick, unthinking reaction.
Talking about reflexes as a general ability or trait, often in plural form.
反射 (reflex) is the physiological reaction itself, while 反射神経 (reflex nerves) refers to the speed or quality of one's reflexes. Use 反射神経 when talking about how quick someone's reflexes are.
English often uses 'reflexes' in plural, but Japanese 反射 is usually treated as a mass noun or singular concept. Do not try to pluralize it; context makes the meaning clear.
I reflexively lied. (lit. I told a lie instantly.)
Conditioned reflex, like Pavlov's dogs. Used in psychological contexts.
Pavlov's dogs' conditioned reflex is famous.
There is training to improve your reflexes.