Translation guide
Scrap iron refers to discarded iron or steel that can be recycled. In Japanese, the most common term is 鉄くず, but other words exist depending on context, such as industrial recycling or waste metal in general.
scrap iron
The most common way to refer to scrap iron, such as old metal parts, junk iron, or iron waste.
The standard term for scrap iron. Used in everyday contexts and recycling.
This factory recycles scrap iron.
Loanword from English 'scrap', often used for scrap metal in general, including iron. Common in industrial contexts.
The price of scrap is rising.
Literally 'waste iron'. More formal or technical, used in waste management or environmental contexts.
We discussed methods for disposing of waste iron.
When referring to scrap metal in general, which may include iron but also other metals.
鉄くず specifically means scrap iron, while スクラップ is a broader term for any scrap material, often metal. In industrial settings, スクラップ is very common, but for clarity, 鉄くず is preferred when iron is meant.