Translation guide
The English word "inertia" has two main uses: a physics concept and a metaphorical sense meaning resistance to change. This guide covers both, with natural Japanese expressions for each.
Express the scientific concept of inertia as a property of matter.
The standard physics term for inertia. Used in scientific and technical contexts.
Describe a situation where people or organizations are slow to change or act because of existing habits or momentum.
The most common word for metaphorical inertia. Implies continuing out of habit or momentum without active thought.
While 慣性 is the correct physics term, using it for social or organizational inertia sounds unnatural. Use 惰性 or other expressions instead.
惰性 (だせい) can be used in both physics and metaphorical contexts, but in physics it often implies passive continuation, while 慣性 (かんせい) is the neutral scientific term. In everyday metaphorical use, 惰性 is the go-to word.
慣性の法則
the law of inertia
物体には慣性がある。
Objects have inertia.
Sometimes used for inertia in physics, but more commonly means momentum or habit in non-physics contexts. Can be used in physics when contrasting with active forces.
惰性で動き続ける。
It continues to move due to inertia.
組織の惰性を打破する。
Break the inertia of the organization.
惰性で仕事を続けている。
I'm continuing my job out of inertia.
Literally 'maintaining the status quo'. Used when inertia means sticking to the current state without change.
現状維持のままではいけない。
We can't just stay in inertia.
Means 'unable to move' or 'stuck'. Describes a state of inertia where action is difficult.
交渉は動きが取れない状態だ。
The negotiations are in a state of inertia.
Means stagnation or deadlock. Can be used when inertia leads to a lack of progress.
経済の停滞を打破する。
Break the economic inertia.