Translation guide
The English word "environment" covers several distinct concepts in Japanese. The most common translations are 環境 (かんきょう) for surroundings or natural world, and 周囲 (しゅうい) for immediate physical or social surroundings. In computing, 環境 also means a software/hardware environment. For a natural setting, 自然 (しぜん) is often more natural than 環境.
The physical, social, or cultural conditions in which someone lives or something operates.
The most common and versatile translation. Covers natural, social, working, living, and abstract environments.
子供にとって良い環境を整えることが大切です。
It's important to provide a good environment for children.
この会社は働きやすい環境だ。
This company has a comfortable working environment.
Refers to one's immediate physical surroundings or the people around you. Often used for social environment or atmosphere.
周囲の環境に馴染めなかった。
I couldn't get used to the surrounding environment.
周囲の人々の協力が必要だ。
We need the cooperation of the people around us.
The natural world, especially as affected by human activity.
Used in contexts like environmental protection, pollution, and ecology.
環境を守るためにリサイクルをしています。
I recycle to protect the environment.
環境問題について話し合いましょう。
Let's discuss environmental issues.
Means 'nature' and is often more natural than 環境 when talking about the natural world in a non-technical sense.
The hardware, software, or system configuration in which a program runs.
Used in IT contexts: development environment, runtime environment, etc.
開発環境を整えるのに時間がかかった。
It took time to set up the development environment.
このアプリは最新の環境でしか動きません。
This app only runs in the latest environment.
The mood or character of a place or situation.
Refers to the atmosphere or mood of a place, event, or group. Often used for social or physical ambiance.
このレストランは落ち着いた雰囲気だ。
This restaurant has a relaxed environment (atmosphere).
職場の雰囲気が良くなった。
The atmosphere at work has improved.
Can also be used for atmosphere, but 雰囲気 is more common for mood.
環境 (かんきょう) is a broader term that includes man-made surroundings, while 自然 (しぜん) specifically refers to the natural world. Use 自然 when talking about forests, rivers, etc., and 環境 when discussing conditions or systems.
自然環境を守る
protect the natural environment
When you mean the mood or vibe of a place, 雰囲気 (ふんいき) is usually better. Using 環境 might sound too formal or technical.
Let's take care of the environment (nature).
自然の中で過ごすのは気持ちがいい。
Spending time in the natural environment feels good.
勉強に集中できる環境を作りたい。
I want to create an environment where I can concentrate on studying.