Translation guide
The English word 'mechanic' can refer to a person who repairs machines, especially cars, or to the practical aspects of how something works. This guide focuses on the most common meaning: a repair technician. It also covers related terms for machinery specialists and the abstract sense of 'mechanics'.
To refer to a person whose job is repairing cars, trucks, or other vehicles.
The standard term for a licensed vehicle mechanic or maintenance technician. Used for professionals who inspect, maintain, and repair automobiles.
彼は自動車整備士です。
He is an auto mechanic.
整備士の資格を取るために勉強しています。
I'm studying to get a mechanic's license.
A loanword from English, often used in casual contexts or for mechanics in motorsports, aviation, or specialized fields. Can sound slightly more 'cool' or technical than 整備士.
彼はレーシングカーのメカニックです。
He is a racing car mechanic.
A general term for a repair worker, not limited to vehicles. Can refer to someone who fixes machinery, appliances, etc. Less specific than 整備士.
車の修理工に診てもらった。
I had a car mechanic look at it.
To refer to someone who repairs mechanical equipment in general (not just cars).
A machinist or mechanical repair worker. Often used for factory maintenance, industrial machinery, or someone who works with metal parts.
工場で機械工として働いています。
I work as a mechanic in a factory.
A maintenance staff member, often used for aircraft, trains, or large vehicles. Implies a team member rather than an independent mechanic.
航空機の整備員になりたい。
I want to become an aircraft mechanic.
To talk about the way something works or the practical details of a process.
Refers to the structure, mechanism, or how something is put together. Used for both physical machines and abstract systems.
この時計の仕組みを説明してください。
Please explain the mechanics of this clock.
選挙の仕組みは複雑だ。
The mechanics of the election are complicated.
A loanword meaning mechanism. Often used in scientific, technical, or abstract contexts. Slightly more formal than 仕組み.
While メカニック is understood, 整備士 is the standard term for a professional vehicle mechanic. Using メカニック might sound like you're referring to a pit crew member or a hobbyist.
整備士 implies a certified professional who performs maintenance and inspections, while 修理工 is a more general repair person. For car mechanics, 整備士 is preferred.
車を整備士に出さなければならない。
I need to take my car to the mechanic.
彼は腕のいい整備士だ。
He's a skilled mechanic.
この機械のメカニズムは非常に精巧だ。
The mechanics of this machine are very intricate.