Translation guide
A trial run is a test of something before its official use or launch, to check if it works properly or to practice. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 試運転 for machines/vehicles, and 試しにやってみる or テスト for general situations.
trial run (of a machine)
trial run (general)
Use this phrase for trying something out.
To operate a machine, vehicle, or system for the first time to ensure it works correctly.
Specifically for testing the operation of vehicles, machines, or equipment. Commonly used for trains, cars, elevators, etc.
The trial run of the new train has started.
A general loanword for 'test', often used for trial runs of software, systems, or processes.
A more formal or technical term for trial operation, similar to 試運転 but often used in engineering contexts.
To attempt something as an experiment or to see how it goes, not necessarily a machine.
Literally 'try doing it as a test'. A very natural way to express doing a trial run of an activity or method.
I did a trial run of the new recipe.
A noun meaning 'trial' or 'test', often used for products or services. Can be used in phrases like お試し期間 (trial period).
You can use this software on a trial basis.
Loanword meaning 'trial', often used in business or sports contexts. Can refer to a trial run of a service or a tryout.
A formal term meaning 'trial' or 'test run', often used in technical or academic contexts, like 試行錯誤 (trial and error).
To do a practice run of an event, performance, or procedure to prepare.
Loanword for 'rehearsal', used for performances, events, or presentations. Can be used metaphorically for any practice run.
Let's do a trial run before the real thing.
Literally 'try doing it as practice'. A casual way to suggest a trial run for practice purposes.
試運転 is specifically for operating machines or vehicles for the first time. テスト is a broader term for any kind of test, including trial runs of software or processes.
trial run of the elevator
trial run of the website
Avoid directly translating 'trial run' as 裁判走行 or similar. It will not be understood. Use the appropriate term based on context.
We need to do a trial run of the new software before the launch.
The train is undergoing a trial run.
We will conduct a trial run of the new system.
We carried out a trial run of the plant.
Sign up for a free trial.
新方式の試行を始める。
We will begin a trial run of the new method.
A formal term for a rehearsal or dry run, often used for ceremonies or military exercises.
We will conduct a trial run of the ceremony.
Let's do a trial run of the presentation beforehand.