Translation guide
In Japanese, the word for 'coefficient' is 係数 (けいすう). This is a technical term used in mathematics, physics, and engineering. For everyday English uses like 'coefficient of friction' or 'correlation coefficient', the same word applies. There are no common alternative translations, but learners should be aware of related terms like 率 (りつ) for 'rate' or 'ratio' in some contexts.
A number or factor multiplying a variable or expressing a relationship between quantities.
The standard term for 'coefficient' in mathematics, physics, and engineering. Used in expressions like 摩擦係数 (friction coefficient) and 相関係数 (correlation coefficient).
この式の係数を求めてください。
Please find the coefficient in this equation.
摩擦係数は表面の粗さに依存する。
The coefficient of friction depends on the surface roughness.
係数 is specifically a coefficient (a constant factor in a term), while 率 often means 'rate' or 'ratio' (e.g., 成長率 growth rate, 利率 interest rate). Do not confuse them. In some compound words, 率 may translate to 'coefficient' in English (e.g., 吸収率 absorption coefficient), but 係数 is the safer, more general choice.