Translation guide
Silica is a chemical compound (SiO₂) found in nature as quartz, sand, and in living organisms. In Japanese, it is most commonly referred to as シリカ (shirika) in everyday and industrial contexts, while 二酸化ケイ素 (nisankakeiso) is the formal chemical name.
silica (chemical name)
Formal chemical name, used in scientific contexts.
Referring to silica as a material, ingredient, or substance in non-specialist contexts (e.g., in products, food, or everyday conversation).
The most common and widely understood term for silica in Japanese. Used in product labels, health supplements, and general conversation.
This supplement contains silica.
Silica gel absorbs moisture.
Refers to silica stone or quartzite, used in industrial contexts like refractories or ceramics. Not for general 'silica'.
Referring to silica in chemistry, geology, or materials science, where precise terminology is needed.
The standard IUPAC name in Japanese. Used in academic papers, textbooks, and official documents.
Silicon dioxide is represented by the chemical formula SiO₂.
Also used in scientific contexts, especially in fields like materials science or when referring to amorphous silica.
Referring to silica in the body, in plants, or as a dietary supplement.
The standard term in health and nutrition. Used for silica supplements, bamboo silica, etc.
Silica is said to be good for bone and skin health.
Refers to the element silicon, but sometimes used in contexts where silica is implied as a source of silicon. Not a direct translation of 'silica'.
シリカ is the loanword from English and is used in most non-specialist contexts (products, supplements, general conversation). 二酸化ケイ素 is the formal chemical name and is preferred in academic or regulatory writing. In everyday speech, シリカ is almost always the better choice.
This cosmetic contains silica.
We analyzed the crystal structure of silicon dioxide.
Silica is SiO₂, while silicon is the element Si. In Japanese, silicon is ケイ素 (keiso). Using ケイ素 for silica can cause confusion, though in some health contexts it may be loosely used.
Silica is a compound of silicon and oxygen.
Silica is used in the production of glass.
The silica content of this rock is high.
The formal chemical name for silica (SiO₂). Used in scientific, technical, and regulatory contexts.
Silicon dioxide is the main component of quartz.
ケイ石は耐火レンガの原料です。
Silica stone is a raw material for firebricks.
シリカナノ粒子の合成方法を研究しています。
We are researching synthesis methods for silica nanoparticles.
An older or alternative chemical name for silica (silicic anhydride). Rarely used today except in some traditional contexts.
Silicic anhydride is another name for silicon dioxide.
ケイ素は植物の成長に必要な元素です。
Silicon is an element necessary for plant growth.