Translation guide
The field of electronics, electronic devices, or electronic components. This guide helps you choose the right Japanese expression depending on whether you mean the technology, consumer products, or parts.
Referring to electronics as a branch of science, engineering, or industry.
The standard term for electronics as an academic or engineering discipline. Literally 'electronic engineering'.
彼は大学で電子工学を専攻している。
He is majoring in electronics at university.
The loanword from English, often used in industry names, media, or when emphasizing modern technology. Can sound slightly more trendy or broad.
エレクトロニクスの進歩は目覚ましい。
Advances in electronics are remarkable.
Refers to electronic technology in a practical or applied sense, often in industrial contexts.
この会社は電子技術の分野で有名だ。
This company is famous in the field of electronics.
Talking about gadgets, appliances, or equipment that use electronic circuits.
General term for electronic devices or equipment. Suitable for both consumer and industrial contexts.
この店では様々な電子機器を販売している。
This store sells various electronic devices.
Short for 家庭用電気製品 (household electrical appliances). Refers to consumer electronics for home use like TVs, refrigerators, etc. Very common in everyday speech.
Literally 'electronic products'. Used in commercial or technical contexts, but less common in daily conversation than 家電 or 電子機器.
この工場では電子製品を製造している。
This factory manufactures electronic products.
A loanword compound meaning 'electronics products'. Used in marketing or industry news, but sounds a bit stiff.
エレクトロニクス製品の展示会が開かれる。
An exhibition of electronics products will be held.
Referring to the internal parts like resistors, capacitors, ICs, etc.
The standard term for electronic components. Used in engineering, manufacturing, and hobbyist contexts.
電子部品を秋葉原で買った。
I bought electronic components in Akihabara.
A mix of Japanese and English, often used by hobbyists or in casual contexts. 'Parts' is from English.
電子パーツをネットで注文した。
I ordered electronic parts online.
家電 (かでん) specifically refers to household electrical appliances (white goods, AV equipment). 電子機器 (でんしきき) is broader and includes industrial equipment, computers, and portable devices. For everyday shopping, 家電 is more natural.
家電量販店でテレビを買った。
I bought a TV at an electronics retail store.
電子機器の修理を頼んだ。
I asked for repair of an electronic device.
While エレクトロニクス is understood, it sounds like industry jargon or a trendy buzzword. For normal conversation about gadgets, use 家電 or 電子機器.
I'm going to buy new electronics (home appliances).