Translation guide
The English word 'pipeline' has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common ones for learners: a physical pipe system, a metaphorical process or supply chain, and computing data pipelines.
A system of pipes for transporting liquids or gases over long distances.
The direct loanword, widely understood for large-scale oil/gas pipelines.
新しいパイプラインが建設中です。
A new pipeline is under construction.
A more technical term meaning 'transport pipe', used in engineering contexts.
この輸送管は天然ガスを運んでいます。
This pipeline carries natural gas.
Refers to a conduit or pipe, often for water or gas, but less common for long-distance pipelines.
導管の点検が必要です。
The pipeline needs inspection.
A system or process through which something is supplied, developed, or moved forward, such as a talent pipeline or product pipeline.
The loanword is also used metaphorically in business and tech, similar to English.
新製品のパイプラインを強化する必要があります。
We need to strengthen the new product pipeline.
Means 'supply route' or 'supply chain', often used for physical goods but can be extended metaphorically.
人材の供給経路を確保する。
Secure the talent pipeline.
Literally 'development stage', used when referring to a pipeline of projects in progress.
複数のプロジェクトが開発段階にあります。
Several projects are in the pipeline.
A series of data processing steps, often in software or data engineering.
The standard term in IT contexts, directly borrowed from English.
データパイプラインを構築する。
Build a data pipeline.
Specifically 'processing pipeline', used when emphasizing the processing aspect.
画像処理パイプラインを最適化する。
Optimize the image processing pipeline.
When 'pipeline' means a process or supply chain, avoid directly translating to physical pipe words like 輸送管. Use パイプライン or rephrase with terms like 供給経路 or 開発段階 depending on context.