Translation guide
The English word 'technical' has several distinct meanings. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression depending on whether they mean specialized terminology, practical skill, strict rule interpretation, or technological.
Describing something that involves specialized knowledge, jargon, or terminology of a particular field.
The most common and versatile adjective meaning 'technical' in the sense of specialized or expert. Used for terminology, knowledge, or discussions.
この本は専門的すぎて、初心者には難しい。
This book is too technical for beginners.
専門的な用語を避けて説明してください。
Please explain without using technical terms.
Often used when 'technical' relates to technology, engineering, or practical techniques. Can overlap with 専門的 but leans more toward applied skills.
技術的な問題が発生しました。
A technical problem has occurred.
Specifically refers to academic or scholarly technicality. Used for research papers, academic language.
この論文は非常に学術的だ。
This paper is highly technical (academic).
Referring to the practical application of skills, especially in arts, crafts, sports, or manual work.
Used for technical skills, technical aspects of a performance, or technical proficiency. Often appears as 技術的な + noun.
彼のピアノの演奏は技術的には完璧だ。
His piano performance is technically perfect.
このスポーツは技術的な練習が必要だ。
This sport requires technical practice.
Loanword from English, often used in sports, music, or business contexts to mean 'technical' in a modern, stylish way.
Emphasizes artistry or craftsmanship in technique. Often used in fine arts or traditional crafts.
Describing a decision or interpretation based on a precise, often narrow reading of rules or laws.
Adverbial phrase meaning 'technically speaking' or 'strictly speaking'. Used to point out a factual detail that may contradict a general statement.
厳密には、それは違法ではない。
Technically, that's not illegal.
厳密に言うと、トマトは果物です。
Technically speaking, a tomato is a fruit.
Means 'according to the rules' or 'technically by the rules'. Used when contrasting the rule with reality.
規則上は許可されていないが、誰も気にしない。
Technically it's not allowed, but nobody cares.
Means 'in theory' or 'technically', often implying a gap between theory and practice.
理屈の上では可能だが、現実的ではない。
Technically it's possible, but not practical.
Pertaining to machinery, electronics, computers, or industrial processes.
Used as a noun modifier meaning 'technical' in the sense of technological. Often appears in compounds like 技術革新 (technological innovation).
技術の進歩は速い。
Technical progress is rapid.
技術サポートが必要ですか？
Do you need technical support?
Loanword, often used in business or IT contexts. Sounds modern and slightly corporate.
テクノロジーの分野で働いています。
I work in the technical (technology) field.
専門的 (senmonteki) is about specialized knowledge, while 技術的 (gijutsuteki) is about practical technique or technology. Use 専門的 for academic jargon, and 技術的 for engineering or skill-related contexts.
テクニカル is a loanword and can sound like jargon or marketing speak. In everyday conversation, 技術的な or 専門的な are safer choices.
そのマニュアルは専門的すぎる。
The manual is too technical.
厳密には、あなたが正しい。
Technically, you're right.
技術サポートが必要です。
We need technical assistance.
あの選手はテクニカルな動きがすごい。
That player has amazing technical moves.
彼の書道は技巧的に優れている。
His calligraphy is technically excellent.