Translation guide
The English term 'remote control' can refer to the device used to operate electronics from a distance, or the act of controlling something remotely. This guide covers both meanings with natural Japanese expressions.
The handheld device used to operate a TV, air conditioner, etc.
The most common and natural word for a remote control device. Short for リモートコントロール.
リモコンを取ってください。
Please pass me the remote control.
リモコンの電池が切れた。
The remote control batteries died.
A technical term for a remote control device, rarely used in daily conversation.
この遠隔操作機は産業用です。
This remote control device is for industrial use.
The act of controlling something from a distance.
In English, 'remote control' can mean both the device and the action. In Japanese, リモコン almost always means the device, while 遠隔操作 means the action. Using リモコン for the action sounds unnatural.
リモコンで操作する。
Operate it with the remote control.
The full form, less common in casual speech but understood. Often used in technical contexts.
このリモートコントロールは多機能です。
This remote control is multifunctional.
The standard term for remote operation or remote control as an action. Used as a noun or with する.
ドローンを遠隔操作する。
To control a drone remotely.
遠隔操作でロボットを動かす。
Move the robot by remote control.
A more modern, slightly casual term for remote operation, often used in IT contexts.
パソコンをリモート操作する。
To remotely control a PC.
Technical term for remote control, often used in engineering and automation.
遠隔制御システムを導入した。
We introduced a remote control system.