Translation guide
In Japanese, 'scrap metal' is most commonly expressed as 鉄くず (てつくず) or スクラップ. The choice depends on context: 鉄くず refers specifically to iron/steel scrap, while スクラップ is a broader term used in recycling and industry. For general waste metal, 金属くず (きんぞくくず) is also used.
Referring to discarded metal items or fragments intended for recycling or disposal.
The most common term for scrap iron or steel. Often used in everyday contexts and recycling.
この工場では鉄くずをリサイクルしています。
This factory recycles scrap metal.
A loanword from English, widely used in industrial and business contexts. Can refer to scrap metal in general, not just iron.
スクラップの価格が上がっている。
The price of scrap metal is rising.
A more general term for scrap metal of any kind. Less common in daily speech but clear in meaning.
金属くずを分別してください。
Please separate the scrap metal.
Talking about scrap metal in economic, industrial, or trading contexts.
The standard term in business and industry for scrap metal as a traded commodity.
彼はスクラップ業を営んでいる。
He runs a scrap metal business.
A formal term meaning 'waste metal,' used in official or technical documents.
廃金属の処理方法について話し合った。
We discussed methods for disposing of scrap metal.
Referring to metal waste from particular items like vehicles or electronics.
Literally 'scrap iron from discarded cars.' Used when specifying the source.
廃車の鉄くずが山積みになっている。
Scrap metal from junked cars is piled up.
Scrap from home appliances. スクラップ is often used for mixed or non-ferrous metals.
家電のスクラップから貴金属を回収する。
They recover precious metals from appliance scrap.