Translation guide
The English word 'nature' covers several distinct concepts: the natural world (plants, animals, landscapes), the inherent character or quality of something, and a type or kind. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each meaning.
Referring to the outdoors, environment, plants, animals, landscapes, and natural phenomena, often in contrast to human-made things.
The most common and general word for 'nature' as the natural world. Used in everyday conversation and writing.
自然が好きです。
I like nature.
自然を守りましょう。
Let's protect nature.
Emphasizes 'great nature' or 'the great outdoors', often used for vast, untouched landscapes.
北海道の大自然は素晴らしい。
The great nature of Hokkaido is wonderful.
Refers to the 'natural environment', often used in environmental or scientific contexts.
自然環境を破壊してはいけない。
We must not destroy the natural environment.
Describing the basic, essential, or innate character of a person, thing, or phenomenon.
The most common word for the inherent nature or property of something. Used for both concrete and abstract things.
この問題の性質を理解する必要がある。
We need to understand the nature of this problem.
彼は性質が優しい。
He has a gentle nature.
Refers to the 'essence' or 'true nature' of something, often used in philosophical or deep discussions.
Specifically refers to a person's character, personality, or disposition. Not used for inanimate objects.
Refers to innate nature, inborn qualities, or natural talent. Somewhat literary.
Used in phrases like 'something of that nature' or 'things of a similar nature' to indicate a category.
A common pattern meaning 'something like ~' or 'things of that nature'. The 〜 is replaced by a noun or description.
書類やそのようなものはここに置いてください。
Please put documents and things of that nature here.
A more formal pattern meaning 'things of the sort/kind of ~'. Used in writing or formal speech.
詐欺やそれといった類の犯罪が増えている。
Fraud and crimes of that nature are increasing.
人間の本質とは何か。
What is the nature of human beings?
彼女は明るい性格だ。
She has a cheerful nature.
彼には音楽の天性がある。
He has a natural gift for music.