Translation guide
The English word "rotary" can refer to rotating machines, rotary clubs, or traffic circles. This guide covers how to express these concepts naturally in Japanese.
To refer to a machine or tool that rotates, such as a rotary engine, rotary cutter, or rotary dial.
To refer to Rotary International or a local Rotary club.
To refer to a circular intersection where traffic moves around a central island.
English often uses 'rotary' as an adjective (e.g., rotary switch). In Japanese, use 回転式 (rotation-type) or a specific compound word. Directly translating 'rotary' as ロータリー may not be understood in all contexts.
rotary dial phone
Loanword from English, used in specific technical contexts like 'rotary engine' or 'rotary club', but less common as a general adjective.
rotary engine
Verb meaning 'to rotate'. Use to describe the action rather than as a modifier.
This part rotates at high speed.
The standard term for a Rotary club. Often shortened to just ロータリー in context.
He is a member of the Rotary Club.
Shortened form, common in conversation when the context is clear.
I'll attend the Rotary meeting next week.
The most common term for a traffic circle in Japan, though design may differ from Western roundabouts.
Please exit right at that rotary.
Formal term for 'roundabout' used in traffic regulations. More technical.
At a roundabout, you proceed clockwise.
Loanword for modern roundabouts, sometimes used in urban planning contexts.
A new roundabout was built in this area.