Translation guide
The concept of achieving maximum productivity with minimum wasted effort or expense. In Japanese, this is expressed through words like 効率, 能率, and related terms, each with different nuances and contexts.
Expressing the idea of doing something with minimal waste of time, energy, or resources.
The most common and versatile word for 'efficiency'. It refers to the ratio of useful work performed to the total resources expended. Used in business, engineering, and daily life.
この機械はエネルギー効率が良い。
This machine has good energy efficiency.
仕事の効率を上げる方法を考えている。
I'm thinking of ways to improve work efficiency.
Focuses more on the rate of output or productivity, often used in contexts like work performance or mechanical efficiency. Slightly more formal or technical than 効率.
能率の良い作業手順を確立する。
Establish an efficient work procedure.
The na-adjective form of 効率, meaning 'efficient'. Used to describe methods, systems, or people.
もっと効率的な方法はありませんか？
Isn't there a more efficient way?
Focusing on using time well, without wasting it.
Specifically refers to time efficiency. Often used in contexts like studying or commuting.
この勉強法は時間効率が悪い。
This study method is time-inefficient.
A natural phrase meaning 'to use time effectively'. It emphasizes making good use of time rather than a mathematical ratio.
通勤時間を有効に使って読書している。
I use my commuting time effectively by reading.
Getting the most value for money spent.
Literally 'cost versus effect', this is the standard term for cost-effectiveness or cost efficiency in business and project management.
このプロジェクトは費用対効果が低い。
This project has low cost efficiency.
Economic efficiency, often used in macroeconomics or policy discussions.
経済効率を高めるための政策が必要だ。
Policies to improve economic efficiency are necessary.
Slang abbreviation of 'cost performance', meaning good value for money. Very common in casual conversation.
このレストランはコスパがいい。
This restaurant is good value for money.
Using less energy to perform the same task.
Making a process or system run more smoothly with less waste.
Refers to rationalization or streamlining of operations, often in business contexts. Implies eliminating unnecessary steps.
業務の合理化を進めている。
We are promoting operational efficiency.
Making something more efficient; often used as a verb (効率化する). Common in business improvement contexts.
効率 (こうりつ) is the general term for efficiency as a ratio (output/input). 能率 (のうりつ) emphasizes the rate of work or productivity, and is often used for human performance or mechanical output. In many everyday situations, 効率 is more natural.
While 効率 is the direct translation, in casual speech Japanese speakers often use phrases like 無駄がない (むだがない, 'no waste') or スムーズ (smooth) instead of explicitly saying 'efficient'. Overusing 効率 can sound stiff.
The direct translation of 'energy efficiency', used in technical or formal contexts.
このエアコンはエネルギー効率が高い。
This air conditioner has high energy efficiency.
作業を効率化するためのツールを導入した。
We introduced a tool to streamline the work.