Translation guide
The English word 'factor' covers several distinct meanings: a contributing element in a situation, a number that divides another in math, a coefficient or multiplier, and a business agent. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each meaning.
主な要因は何ですか？
What's the main factor?
To refer to one of several things that influence a result or situation.
The most common and neutral word for a factor that contributes to an outcome. Used in both spoken and written Japanese.
ストレスが病気の大きな要因になる。
Stress is a major factor in illness.
成功の要因は何ですか？
What are the factors behind your success?
Means 'element' or 'component'. Often used when breaking something down into its constituent parts. Slightly more abstract than 要因.
価格は重要な要素です。
Price is an important factor.
この計画には多くの要素が含まれている。
This plan involves many factors.
Technical term used in science, statistics, and mathematics for a factor or divisor. Not used in everyday conversation.
遺伝的因子が関係している。
Genetic factors are involved.
To refer to a number that divides another number exactly.
The standard mathematical term for a factor (divisor). Used in arithmetic and algebra.
12の因数は1、2、3、4、6、12です。
The factors of 12 are 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 12.
Also means divisor, but more common in elementary math contexts. 因数 is preferred in algebra.
To refer to a number or quantity that multiplies another, often in scientific or economic contexts.
Means coefficient or factor in formulas, physics, and economics. E.g., safety factor, conversion factor.
安全係数を考慮して設計する。
Design taking the safety factor into account.
この係数を掛けてください。
Multiply by this factor.
Used for magnification factor, multiplication factor, or ratio. Common in photography, finance, and statistics.
To refer to a person or company that acts on behalf of another in commerce.
General term for agent or proxy. Can be used for a factor in the sense of a commercial agent.
彼はその会社の代理人として交渉した。
He negotiated as a factor for the company.
要因 emphasizes causality (a factor that causes something), while 要素 is a more neutral 'element' or 'component'. Use 要因 when discussing reasons or causes, and 要素 when listing parts of a whole.
失敗の要因を分析する。
Analyze the factors behind the failure.
デザインの要素を考える。
Consider the elements of the design.
The loanword ファクター is sometimes used in business or technical contexts, but it sounds unnatural for everyday situations. Stick to 要因 or 要素 unless you're in a very specific field like finance or statistics.
6の約数をすべて求めなさい。
Find all the factors of 6.
このレンズの倍率は高い。
This lens has a high magnification factor.
Historical term for a broker or factor, especially in commodities. Rarely used today.
江戸時代の仲買人は重要な役割を果たした。
Factors in the Edo period played an important role.