noun, noun or participle which takes 'suru'
shift to a service/information economy; tertiarization
Economic term for the structural shift from manufacturing to services, information, and knowledge-based industries. Often used in policy and business contexts.
日本経済のソフト化が進んでいる。
The shift toward a service-based economy is progressing in Japan.
製造
The transition from manufacturing to the information industry is a challenge.
noun, noun or participle which takes 'suru'
softening; making softer
General use for making something physically or metaphorically softer, more flexible, or less rigid. Less common than the economic sense.
水を加えて生地をソフト化する。
Add water to soften the dough.
規制のソフト化が求められている。
A softening of regulations is being called for.
noun, noun or participle which takes 'suru'
home video release; release on DVD/Blu-ray
Used in entertainment for the release of a film or show on physical media or digital purchase, as opposed to theatrical or broadcast. Often contrasted with 劇場公開 (theatrical release).
その映画は来月ソフト化される予定だ。
The movie is scheduled for a home video release next month.
ソフト化を待たずに劇場で見た。
I watched it in theaters without waiting for the DVD release.