Translation guide
The English word "correlation" refers to a mutual relationship or connection between two or more things. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 相関 (そうかん), but depending on context, other words like 関連 (かんれん) or 関係 (かんけい) may be more natural. This guide helps you choose the right expression.
To express a statistical correlation between variables, such as in data analysis or research.
The standard term for statistical correlation. Often used in compound words like 相関係数 (correlation coefficient).
身長と体重には高い相関がある。
There is a high correlation between height and weight.
このデータから相関を分析した。
We analyzed the correlation from this data.
A more explicit term meaning 'correlational relationship'. Used in academic or formal contexts.
これらの変数には相関関係が見られる。
A correlational relationship can be seen between these variables.
Refers to the property of being correlated. Less common than 相関.
この二つの事象の相関性を調べる。
We investigate the correlation between these two phenomena.
To express a non-statistical relationship or connection, such as between events, ideas, or phenomena.
A broad term for 'relation' or 'connection'. Often used when correlation is not strictly statistical.
喫煙と肺がんの関連が指摘されている。
A correlation between smoking and lung cancer has been pointed out.
これらの事件には何らかの関連がある。
There is some correlation between these incidents.
A very common word for 'relationship'. Can be used for correlation, but is more general.
Can be used in non-technical contexts to emphasize a mutual relationship, but may sound slightly formal.
To express the concept that correlation does not necessarily mean one thing causes another.
A direct translation of the phrase, commonly used in academic and educational contexts.
相関関係は因果関係を意味しないということを覚えておいてください。
Please remember that correlation does not imply causation.
A more conversational way to express the idea.
相関があっても因果があるとは限らないから、注意が必要だ。
Just because there's a correlation doesn't mean there's causation, so we need to be careful.
相関 (そうかん) is specifically for mutual or statistical correlation. 関連 (かんれん) implies a connection or link, often used in news or reports. 関係 (かんけい) is the most general term for any kind of relationship. Use 相関 for data-driven contexts, 関連 for broader connections, and 関係 for everyday relationships.
相関係数を計算する。
Calculate the correlation coefficient.
その問題は私には関連がない。
That issue has no correlation to me. (i.e., it's not related to me)
彼とは友達関係だ。
I have a friendship with him. (using 関係 for personal relationship)
In everyday conversation, directly using 相関 may sound overly technical. Instead, use 関係がある or 関連している to express that things are connected.
睡眠時間と健康は関係があるよね。
There's a correlation between sleep duration and health, right?
その研究は運動と精神的健康の間に強い相関があることを発見した。
The study found a strong correlation between exercise and mental health.
収入と幸福には何か相関がありますか？
Is there any correlation between income and happiness?
気温とアイスクリームの売り上げには関係がある。
There is a correlation between temperature and ice cream sales.
経済成長と環境破壊の相関について議論する。
We discuss the correlation between economic growth and environmental destruction.
Emphasizes a mutual or reciprocal relationship. More formal.
需要と供給の相互関係を理解する。
Understand the correlation between supply and demand.