Translation guide
A chemical compound that does not contain carbon-hydrogen bonds. In Japanese, this is typically expressed with the term 無機化合物, though in everyday contexts, simpler words like 無機物 may be used.
The standard scientific term for any compound not based on carbon-hydrogen bonds.
The formal, scientific term for 'inorganic compound'. Used in chemistry, textbooks, and technical writing.
水は無機化合物です。
Water is an inorganic compound.
この無機化合物は触媒として使われる。
This inorganic compound is used as a catalyst.
A slightly broader term that can mean 'inorganic substance' or 'inorganic matter'. Often used in general contexts, but less precise than 無機化合物.
岩石は無機物からできている。
Rocks are made of inorganic substances.
When distinguishing between organic and inorganic compounds, often in educational or explanatory contexts.
The standard phrase for 'organic and inorganic compounds'. Used when comparing the two categories.
有機化合物と無機化合物の違いを説明してください。
Please explain the difference between organic and inorganic compounds.
When referring to inorganic materials in daily life, such as minerals, metals, or non-living matter.
Often used to describe something as 'inorganic' in a non-chemical sense, like a sterile environment or a lack of warmth. Can also mean 'mineral' in nutrition contexts.
この部屋は無機質な感じがする。
This room feels inorganic (sterile, lacking warmth).
無機質のサプリメントを取る。
Take mineral supplements.
無機化合物 is the precise term for 'inorganic compound' in chemistry. 無機物 is broader and can refer to any inorganic substance, including elements and mixtures. In casual conversation, 無機物 is more common, but in scientific writing, 無機化合物 is preferred.