Translation guide
The English word "method" refers to a way of doing something, especially a systematic or established procedure. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 方法 (ほうほう), but other words like 方式, 手段, and 手法 are used depending on context. This guide helps you choose the right word for your intended meaning.
To refer to a method, way, or means in a broad sense, often for everyday actions or processes.
The most common and versatile word for 'method' or 'way'. Suitable for both formal and informal contexts.
新しい方法を試してみよう。
Let's try a new method.
この方法で問題が解決した。
The problem was solved with this method.
Literally 'way of doing', more casual and concrete than 方法. Often used for practical, hands-on methods.
彼のやり方はいつも丁寧だ。
His method is always careful.
この料理のやり方を教えてください。
Please teach me the method for this dish.
Emphasizes a means to an end, often implying a tool or measure taken to achieve a goal. Can sound strategic.
目的のためには手段を選ばない。
The end justifies the means.
交通手段は電車です。
My means of transportation is the train.
To describe a method that is part of a system, standard, or technical process, often in science, engineering, or business.
Refers to a system, formula, or prescribed method. Common in technical, business, and organizational contexts.
新しい支払い方式を導入した。
We introduced a new payment method.
この方式は効率的だ。
This method is efficient.
Often used for techniques in art, research, or specialized fields. Implies a skilled or crafted approach.
Loanword from English, used in specific contexts like programming, teaching, or named methodologies.
To refer to a method as an overall approach, mindset, or philosophy behind actions.
Literally 'way of thinking', used when method is about a mindset or conceptual approach.
彼の考え方はいつも論理的だ。
His method of thinking is always logical.
Loanword often used in business or academic contexts to mean a strategic approach or method.
To express 'method' in a very casual, everyday sense, often interchangeable with 'way'.
方法 (ほうほう) is the general term for method. 方式 (ほうしき) implies a systematic or prescribed method, often used in technical or organizational contexts. 手段 (しゅだん) emphasizes a means to an end, often with a strategic nuance. Use 方法 for most everyday situations.
料理の方法を教えて。
Teach me the method for cooking.
新しい販売方式を検討中です。
We are considering a new sales method.
あらゆる手段を尽くした。
We exhausted every means.
The loanword メソッド is not a general substitute for 'method'. It is mainly used in programming (object methods), named methodologies (e.g., Suzuki Method), or certain academic contexts. In most cases, 方法 is more natural.
どんな方法を使いましたか？
What method did you use?
もっと良い方法があるはずだ。
There must be a better method.
His research method is unique.
伝統的な手法で作られています。
It is made using traditional methods.
このメソッドを呼び出してください。
Please call this method.
新しいアプローチを試す必要がある。
We need to try a new approach.
何かいい方法ない？
Isn't there some good method?