[Materials] Japanese Vocabulary and Kanji Guide26

Introduction

Materials are essential components of our world, encompassing everything from the clothes we wear to the buildings we inhabit. In Japanese, there are numerous words and kanji characters used to describe different types of materials. Understanding these terms is crucial for effective communication and comprehension in Japanese. This comprehensive guide will delve into the Japanese vocabulary of materials, providing detailed explanations, example sentences, and useful kanji characters.

Wood Materials

木材 (mokuzai) - Wood is a versatile material widely used in construction and furniture making.
合板 (gōhan) - Plywood is a manufactured wood product composed of thin layers of wood glued together.
ベニヤ板 (beniyaita) - Veneer is a thin sheet of wood sliced from a log and used for decorative purposes.

Kanji Characters

木 (ki) - Tree
材 (zai) - Material

Metal Materials

金属 (kinzoku) - Metal is a solid material characterized by its high thermal and electrical conductivity.
鋼 (hagane) - Steel is an alloy of iron and carbon, known for its strength and durability.
アルミニウム (aruminiumu) - Aluminum is a lightweight metal used in various industries, including aerospace and construction.

Kanji Characters

金 (kane) - Metal
属 (zoku) - Element

Plastic Materials

プラスチック (purasuchikku) - Plastic is a synthetic material made from polymers and used in a wide range of products.
ポリエチレン (poriechiren) - Polyethylene is a common thermoplastic used in packaging and containers.
ポリ塩化ビニル (porienkarobiniru) - Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a versatile plastic material used in pipes, flooring, and window frames.

Kanji Characters

合 (gō) - Synthesis
成 (sei) - Formation

Fabric Materials

布 (nuno) - Fabric is a material made from fibers and used in clothing and textiles.
綿 (men) - Cotton is a natural fiber derived from the cotton plant and known for its softness and breathability.
絹 (kinu) - Silk is a natural fiber produced by silkworms and valued for its luxurious texture and drape.

Kanji Characters

布 (nuno) - Cloth
綿 (men) - Cotton
絹 (kinu) - Silk

Glass Materials

ガラス (garasu) - Glass is a transparent or translucent material made from silica and other components.
アクリルガラス (akurirugarasu) - Acrylic glass (also known as plexiglass) is a lightweight and shatter-resistant alternative to glass.
強化ガラス (kyōkagarasu) - Tempered glass is a type of glass treated to increase its strength and resistance to breakage.

Kanji Characters

玻 (ha) - Glass
璃 (ri) - Precious stone

Ceramic Materials

陶器 (tōki) - Ceramic is a hard and brittle material made from clay and fired at high temperatures.
磁器 (jiki) - Porcelain is a type of ceramic known for its fine texture and translucency.
土器 (doki) - Earthenware is a porous type of ceramic with a coarse texture.

Kanji Characters

陶 (tō) - Pottery
磁 (ji) - Magnet
土 (do) - Earth

Additional Vocabulary

素材 (sozai) - Material
原材料 (genzai ryō) - Raw material
製品 (seihin) - Product
廃棄物 (haikibutsu) - Waste

Kanji Characters

素 (so) - Base
原 (gen) - Origin
製 (sei) - Production
廃 (hai) - Discard

Conclusion

Understanding the Japanese vocabulary of materials is essential for effective communication in various contexts. By mastering the words and kanji characters presented in this guide, you will expand your Japanese proficiency and gain the ability to accurately describe and discuss different types of materials in Japanese.

2024-12-12

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