Translation guide
Describes man-made fibres used in textiles, clothing, and industrial materials. The most common Japanese term is 化学繊維, often abbreviated to 化繊 in everyday contexts.
Referring to man-made fibres in general, such as polyester, nylon, or acrylic.
Standard term for synthetic or man-made fibres. Used in both technical and everyday contexts.
このシャツは化学繊維でできている。
This shirt is made of synthetic fibre.
Common abbreviation of 化学繊維, widely used in casual conversation and product labels.
化繊の服は速乾性がある。
Synthetic fibre clothes dry quickly.
More technical term, often used in scientific or industrial contexts. Emphasizes the chemical synthesis process.
合成繊維は石油から作られる。
Synthetic fibres are made from petroleum.
Naming common synthetic materials like polyester, nylon, or acrylic.
Polyester, the most common synthetic fibre. Used in clothing, bottles, and industrial fabrics.
ポリエステル100%のTシャツ。
A 100% polyester T-shirt.
Nylon, known for strength and elasticity. Used in stockings, activewear, and ropes.
Acrylic fibre, often used as a wool substitute in sweaters and blankets.
Rayon, a semi-synthetic fibre made from cellulose. Often used in dresses and linings.
Talking about what a fabric is made of, often seen on clothing labels.
Attach to a material name to mean 'made of ~'. For example, ナイロン製 means 'made of nylon'.
このジャケットはポリエステル製です。
This jacket is made of polyester.
Means 'blended with ~'. Used for mixed fabrics, e.g., 綿混紡 (cotton blend).
ウールと化繊の混紡素材。
A wool-synthetic blend material.
In everyday conversation and on clothing tags, 化繊 is more common than 化学繊維. It's perfectly acceptable in most situations, though 化学繊維 may be preferred in formal writing.
化学繊維 is the broader term including both synthetic and regenerated fibres (like rayon). 合成繊維 specifically refers to fibres synthesized from petrochemicals (polyester, nylon, etc.). In general use, 化学繊維 is sufficient.
このバッグは化繊でできています。
This bag is made of synthetic fibre.
スポーツウェアには化学繊維がよく使われる。
Synthetic fibres are often used in sportswear.
ナイロン製のストッキング。
Nylon stockings.
アクリルのセーターは軽くて暖かい。
Acrylic sweaters are light and warm.
レーヨンのブラウスは肌触りが良い。
Rayon blouses feel soft against the skin.
Spandex or elastane, known for exceptional elasticity. Used in sportswear and stretch fabrics.
スパンデックス入りのレギンス。
Leggings with spandex.