Translation guide
The English word "sample" can refer to a representative piece, a specimen for testing, or the act of trying something. In Japanese, different words are used depending on whether you mean a free sample, a test piece, a statistical sample, or the action of sampling.
A small amount of a product given away for free so people can try it.
The most common and direct loanword for a free sample, especially in commercial contexts like cosmetics or food.
化粧品のサンプルをもらいました。
I received a sample of cosmetics.
A more formal term for a free sample, often used in business or product promotions.
新製品の試供品を配っています。
They are handing out samples of the new product.
A small part taken from a larger whole to examine its quality or characteristics.
Also used for test specimens in scientific or quality-control contexts.
水質検査のためにサンプルを採取した。
We took a sample for water quality testing.
Used for biological, geological, or statistical specimens; more formal and scientific.
Can mean a sample for display or reference, like a fabric swatch or product example.
A subset of a population selected for a survey or study.
Commonly used in statistics and data analysis.
この調査のサンプル数は1000人です。
The sample size of this survey is 1000 people.
The formal statistical term for a sample, often used in academic papers.
To test or experience a small amount of something.
The most natural way to say "try out" or "sample" something, like food or an activity.
このチーズを試してみてください。
Please sample this cheese.
Specifically for sampling food or drink to check the taste.
料理の味見をしてもいいですか？
May I sample the dish?
Formal verb for sampling food, often used in stores or events.
スーパーで新商品を試食した。
I sampled a new product at the supermarket.
昆虫の標本を集めています。
I collect insect specimens.
I ordered a sample of the wallpaper.
無作為に抽出した標本を分析する。
Analyze a randomly selected sample.