Translation guide
The English word "matrix" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common uses: a grid or array (especially in math/tech), a surrounding environment or medium, and a mold or template. It also notes the movie title.
A rectangular arrangement of numbers, symbols, or data in rows and columns.
The standard mathematical term for a matrix. Used in linear algebra and related fields.
この行列の逆行列を求めてください。
Please find the inverse of this matrix.
A loanword from English, often used in computing, data analysis, or business contexts. Less common in pure mathematics.
データをマトリックス形式で表示する。
Display the data in matrix format.
Means 'table' or 'chart'. Can be used for a matrix-like arrangement of data, but not for mathematical matrices.
この表は売上データのマトリックスです。
This table is a matrix of sales data.
The cultural, social, or physical environment in which something develops or exists.
Means 'foundation' or 'base'. Often used for the underlying structure or environment that supports something.
この文化は複雑な社会的基盤の中で発展した。
This culture developed within a complex social matrix.
General word for 'environment'. Can be used when 'matrix' means the surrounding conditions.
Literally 'mother body'. Used for a matrix in the sense of a nurturing or generative environment, often in formal or biological contexts.
A mold in which something is cast or shaped, or a template for reproduction.
Specifically a mold for casting metal or other materials. Also used metaphorically for a fixed pattern.
この部品は鋳型で作られる。
This part is made using a matrix (mold).
A matrix or master mold, often used in printing or manufacturing. More technical than 鋳型.
母型から多数のコピーが作られる。
Many copies are made from the matrix.
Means 'prototype' or 'original model'. Can be used when 'matrix' refers to an original from which copies are made.
Referring to the 1999 science fiction film.
The official Japanese title of the movie is 『マトリックス』. Use this when referring to the film.
『マトリックス』は1999年の映画です。
'The Matrix' is a 1999 movie.
In everyday English, 'matrix' is sometimes used loosely to mean a complex network or system. Directly translating this as 行列 or マトリックス often sounds unnatural. Instead, use words like 網 (network), 構造 (structure), or システム (system) depending on the context.
この組織は複雑なネットワークだ。
This organization is a complex matrix.
生物はその環境の中で進化する。
Organisms evolve within their environmental matrix.
Cells are surrounded by an extracellular matrix.
このデザインの原型は古代ギリシャにある。
The matrix for this design is found in ancient Greece.