Translation guide
The English word 'economic' is used in several distinct ways. This guide helps you choose the right Japanese expression depending on whether you mean relating to the economy, financially efficient, or viable/profitable.
Describing something connected to the economy, economic systems, or the field of economics.
The most common and direct translation. Use this for general references to the economy.
経済の成長は重要な課題です。
Economic growth is an important issue.
The government announced a new economic policy.
Used as a na-adjective, often meaning 'economic' in a broader sense, sometimes overlapping with 'economical' but here meaning 'pertaining to the economy'.
経済的な問題について話し合った。
We discussed economic problems.
Specifically refers to the academic field of economics.
彼は経済学の教授です。
He is a professor of economics.
Describing something that saves money or resources, often translated as 'economical' in English.
The standard translation for 'economical' or 'cost-effective'. Note that the same word can mean 'economic' in other contexts.
この車はとても経済的だ。
This car is very economical.
経済的な方法で旅行する。
Travel in an economical way.
Short for 省エネルギー, meaning energy-saving. Often used for appliances or vehicles.
省エネのエアコンを買った。
I bought an energy-efficient air conditioner.
Casual phrase meaning 'good cost performance', i.e., good value for money.
このレストランはコスパがいい。
This restaurant is good value for money.
Describing whether a business, project, or activity can make enough money to continue.
Means 'to be profitable' or 'to pay its way'. Often used in business contexts.
この事業は採算が取れない。
This business is not economically viable.
Literally 'to be economically viable'. A more formal or explanatory phrase.
そのプロジェクトは経済的に成り立たない。
The project is not economically feasible.
経済の is a simple noun modifier meaning 'of the economy'. 経済的な is a na-adjective that can mean both 'economic' and 'economical'. Context usually clarifies the meaning.
The katakana word エコノミック is sometimes used in compound terms like エコノミックアニマル (economic animal), but it is not a general translation for 'economic'. Avoid using it as a standalone adjective.