Translation guide
The study of how societies use scarce resources to produce goods and services and distribute them. In Japanese, the academic field is 経済学, while 経済 refers to the economy in a broader sense. This guide helps learners choose the right term based on context.
Referring to economics as a field of study, a school subject, or a university major.
The standard term for the academic discipline of economics. Use this when talking about studying economics, economics departments, or economic theories.
私は大学で経済学を専攻しています。
I'm majoring in economics at university.
経済学の授業は難しいですが、面白いです。
Economics classes are difficult but interesting.
Often used as a shorthand for economics in compound words or informal contexts, but primarily means 'economy'. Can be ambiguous, so 経済学 is clearer for the academic field.
経済の勉強をしています。
I'm studying economics. (lit. studying the economy)
Referring to the economy of a country, region, or the world, including economic activity, growth, or policy.
The general term for 'economy' or 'economic conditions'. Used in news, business, and everyday conversation.
日本の経済は回復しつつあります。
Japan's economy is recovering.
経済成長が鈍化している。
Economic growth is slowing down.
Describing the financial or resource-related side of something, like 'the economics of healthcare' or 'the economics of running a business'.
Pattern meaning 'the economics of ~'. Used for specific fields or applications.
医療の経済学は重要な研究分野です。
The economics of healthcare is an important field of study.
Can also mean 'the economy of ~', but may be ambiguous. Use 経済学 for the academic study.
観光の経済は地域にとって重要だ。
The economics of tourism is important for the region.
Talking about whether something makes economic sense, is profitable, or is worth the cost.
Refers to economic efficiency or cost-effectiveness. Often used in business or engineering contexts.
このプロジェクトは経済性に欠ける。
This project lacks economic viability.
Means 'to be profitable' or 'to pay off'. Used when discussing whether a business or investment is financially sound.
この事業は採算が合わない。
This business doesn't make economic sense.
経済 (keizai) means 'economy' and is used for economic conditions, while 経済学 (keizaigaku) specifically means 'economics' as a field of study. In English, 'economics' can refer to both, but in Japanese, the distinction is important. Saying 経済を勉強する can mean 'studying the economy', not necessarily the academic discipline.
彼は経済学の教授です。
He is a professor of economics.
彼は経済の動向を分析している。
He is analyzing economic trends.