Translation guide
The English word "science" most commonly refers to the systematic study of the natural world. In Japanese, the most direct equivalent is 科学 (かがく), but depending on context, other terms like 理科 (りか) for school subjects or 自然科学 (しぜんかがく) for natural sciences may be more appropriate. This guide helps learners choose the right word and use it naturally.
Referring to science in a broad, academic, or general sense, including natural and sometimes social sciences.
The most common and direct translation for 'science' as a systematic field of study. Used in academic, professional, and everyday contexts.
科学の進歩は目覚ましい。
The progress of science is remarkable.
彼は科学に興味がある。
He is interested in science.
Specifically 'natural science,' used when distinguishing from social sciences or humanities. More formal and precise.
自然科学と人文科学の違いを説明してください。
Please explain the difference between natural science and humanities.
Referring to the subject taught in elementary or secondary school, covering basic biology, chemistry, physics, etc.
Used specifically for the school subject 'science' in elementary and secondary education. Not used for university-level or professional science.
理科の授業で実験をした。
We did an experiment in science class.
理科が得意な生徒が多い。
Many students are good at science.
Can also be used for school subjects, especially in higher grades or when referring to the broader concept, but 理科 is more common for the specific class.
Referring to the scientific method, evidence-based reasoning, or a systematic way of thinking.
Means 'scientific method' or 'scientific approach.' Used when emphasizing methodology.
科学的な方法で問題を解決する。
Solve problems using a scientific method.
A more formal term for 'scientific method' or 'scientific technique,' often used in research contexts.
この研究は科学的手法に基づいている。
This research is based on scientific methods.
Referring to a particular branch of science, often used in compound words.
Suffix meaning 'science of ~.' Used to form names of scientific disciplines, e.g., 物理学 (physics), 化学 (chemistry), 生物学 (biology).
物理学は自然科学の一分野だ。
Physics is a branch of natural science.
彼女はコンピューター科学を専攻している。
She majors in computer science.
Contrasting science with non-science fields, often in educational or career contexts.
Refers to the 'science track' or 'science-oriented' fields in education and careers. Often used in contrast to 文系 (ぶんけい, humanities/social sciences).
彼は理系の大学に進んだ。
He went to a science-oriented university.
理系の仕事に就きたい。
I want to get a job in a science-related field.
The opposite of 理系, meaning humanities/social sciences track. Included here for contrast, as it often appears in discussions about science vs. arts.
科学 (かがく) is the broad term for science as a field of study, used in academic and professional contexts. 理科 (りか) specifically refers to the school subject taught in elementary and secondary education. Using 理科 to refer to university-level science or scientific research would be incorrect.
大学で科学を勉強しています。
I study science at university.
小学生のとき理科が好きだった。
I liked science when I was in elementary school.
Many scientific disciplines are formed by adding 科学 (かがく) after the field name, e.g., 地球科学 (earth science), 材料科学 (materials science). However, some traditional fields use 学 (がく) instead, like 物理学 (physics) or 化学 (chemistry). When in doubt, check a dictionary for the established term.
科学は私たちの生活を変えた。
Science has changed our lives.
午後は理科の授業があります。
I have science class in the afternoon.
In high school, you can choose science subjects.
文系と理系のどちらを選ぶか迷っている。
I'm undecided whether to choose humanities or science.