Translation guide
The English word "shaping" can refer to forming physical objects, influencing development, or preparing something. This guide covers common Japanese expressions for these meanings.
To give a specific form to a material, such as clay, wood, or metal.
To have a strong influence on the way someone or something develops.
To form or shape something abstract, like personality, opinion, or society.
幼少期の経験が人格を形成する。
Childhood experiences shape one's personality.
To improve or get something into the desired condition, often through practice or adjustment.
Both read せいけい. 整形 is used for shaping in medical or cosmetic contexts (e.g., 整形外科, orthopedic surgery), while 成形 is for industrial molding or forming materials.
A general verb meaning to shape or form something, often used for physical objects.
彼は粘土を形作って花瓶を作った。
He shaped the clay into a vase.
To shape or mold, often used in technical contexts like plastic surgery or forming materials precisely.
この機械は金属を整形する。
This machine shapes metal.
To mold or form, especially in manufacturing or industrial processes. Note: same reading as 整形 but different kanji and nuance.
プラスチックを成形して部品を作る。
They shape plastic into parts.
To influence or have an effect on, often used when shaping opinions or decisions.
彼の考えは私の決断に影響を与えた。
His ideas shaped my decision.
To steer or direct the course of something, implying shaping its direction.
その出来事が彼の人生を方向付けた。
That event shaped his life.
To arrange, adjust, or put something in order, often used for appearance, shape, or condition.
彼女は髪を整えた。
She shaped her hair.
To finish or put the final touches on something, implying shaping it to completion.
彼は作品を仕上げるのに一週間かけた。
He spent a week shaping the piece.