Translation guide
Describes something created by humans rather than occurring naturally. Covers physical objects, structures, materials, and abstract concepts like disasters or environments.
Describing something made by people, not natural
The most common and neutral way to say 'man-made' for objects, structures, materials, etc. Attaches directly to nouns.
これは人工の湖です。
This is a man-made lake.
We use man-made materials.
Similar to 人工の, but often used for things like '人造人間' (android) or '人造宝石' (synthetic gem). Slightly more technical or sci-fi nuance.
人造ダイヤモンドは天然のものより安い。
Man-made diamonds are cheaper than natural ones.
Means 'artificial' or 'caused by humans', often used for abstract things like errors, disasters, or changes. Not for physical objects.
その事故は人為的なミスが原因だ。
The accident was caused by a man-made error.
Referring to a disaster or crisis caused by human activity
Literally 'human disaster'. Used for man-made calamities like industrial accidents, wars, or environmental destruction, often contrasted with 天災 (natural disaster).
この事故は天災ではなく人災だ。
This accident is not a natural disaster but a man-made one.
A more formal term for 'man-made disaster', often used in reports or news.
人為的災害のリスクが高まっている。
The risk of man-made disasters is increasing.
Describing an environment or landscape altered or created by humans
Adjectival form of 人工, used for environments, landscapes, or conditions. 'Artificial' rather than 'natural'.
この公園は人工的な景観が多い。
This park has many man-made landscapes.
Literally 'human hands have been added'. Implies something natural was modified by people. Softer nuance than 人工的.
この森は人の手が加わった部分もある。
This forest has some man-made parts.
Referring to rules, systems, or concepts created by humans
Used for abstract human-made things like rules, boundaries, or distinctions.
国境は人為的なものだ。
Borders are man-made.
Plain way to say 'made by humans'. Can be used for abstract concepts in casual speech.
法律は人間が作ったルールだ。
Laws are man-made rules.
人工 (jinkō) is the most common for physical man-made objects. 人造 (jinzō) is often used in compounds like 人造人間 (android) or for synthetic gems. 人為的 (jin'iteki) is for abstract or event-based human causes, like errors or disasters.
The English 'man' in 'man-made' refers to humanity, not males. Do not translate literally as 男が作った. Use 人工 or 人間が作った instead.