Translation guide
Describes something that is in the air, transported through the air, or capable of flight. This guide covers common Japanese expressions for these meanings.
Means 'in flight'. Commonly used for aircraft.
その飛行機はまだ飛行中だ。
The plane is still airborne.
Means 'floating/suspended in the air'. Often used for particles, dust, or microorganisms.
花粉が空気中に浮遊している。
Pollen is airborne.
To describe something that spreads or is carried through the air, such as viruses, dust, or chemicals.
Specifically means 'airborne infection'. Used for diseases that spread through the air.
このウイルスは空気感染する。
This virus is airborne.
Means 'to drift through the air'. Used for particles, smells, or substances.
有害物質が空気中を漂っている。
Harmful substances are airborne.
Means 'droplet infection'. Technically different from airborne, but sometimes used in similar contexts. Note: airborne implies smaller particles that linger.
Not exactly the same as airborne; use only when referring to larger droplets.
インフルエンザは飛沫感染する。
Influenza spreads through droplets (not truly airborne).
To describe something that is designed to fly or is currently able to fly.
Means 'capable of flight'. Used for aircraft or other flying machines.
その飛行機はまだ飛行可能な状態だ。
The aircraft is still airborne-capable.
Refers to 'airborne' in a military context, such as airborne troops or operations.
空挺部隊が投入された。
Airborne troops were deployed.
To describe a ball or player that is off the ground during a game.
General phrase for 'to be in the air'. Works for balls, players, etc.
ボールがまだ空中にある。
The ball is still airborne.
Means 'floating' or 'being off the ground'. Casual and common in sports contexts.
選手が一瞬浮いているように見えた。
The player seemed airborne for a moment.
空気感染 (airborne infection) refers to transmission via tiny particles that remain suspended in the air for long periods. 飛沫感染 (droplet infection) involves larger droplets that fall quickly. In English, 'airborne' is often used loosely for both, but in Japanese, the distinction is important in medical contexts.
The direct loanword エアボーン is not commonly used in Japanese. Stick to the phrases above.