Translation guide
The English word "model" covers a wide range of meanings, from a physical representation to an ideal example, a person who poses, or a theoretical framework. Japanese uses different words for each of these meanings, and direct translation is often not possible.
A small-scale copy of something, like a model car, airplane, or architectural model.
General term for a scale model or replica, often used for vehicles, buildings, or scientific models.
彼は飛行機の模型を作るのが好きです。
He likes building model airplanes.
Loanword from English, often used for plastic model kits (プラモデル) or in compound terms.
この車のモデルはとても精巧だ。
This model car is very detailed.
Something that serves as a perfect example to be copied or followed, like a role model or model student.
Refers to a model or example to be followed, often in moral or behavioral contexts.
彼は模範的な学生だ。
He is a model student.
A model or pattern to copy, often used in learning skills like calligraphy or behavior.
Used in phrases like ロールモデル (role model) or モデルケース (model case).
A person employed to display clothes or pose for photographs, paintings, etc.
The standard term for a fashion or art model.
彼女はファッションモデルとして働いている。
She works as a fashion model.
A simplified representation of a system or phenomenon, used in science, economics, etc.
Used in academic and technical contexts for conceptual models.
この経済モデルは現実を単純化しすぎている。
This economic model oversimplifies reality.
A specific type or version of a manufactured item, like a car model or phone model.
Suffix meaning 'model' or 'type', commonly used for vehicles and electronics.
この車の新型は燃費がいい。
The new model of this car has good fuel efficiency.
Often used with numbers or names, e.g., モデルX.
While モデル is a common loanword, it doesn't cover all meanings of 'model'. For physical replicas, 模型 is more natural. For an ideal example, 模範 or 手本 is better.
模範 is more about being an exemplary standard, often used in moral or behavioral contexts. 手本 is a concrete example to copy, like a pattern or template for learning a skill.
His behavior set a good example for the children.
She is my role model.
I bought the latest iPhone model.