Translation guide
The English word "sphere" can refer to a round 3D shape, a domain of activity or knowledge, or a social circle. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each meaning.
A perfectly round three-dimensional object like a ball or globe.
The most common word for a sphere in geometry and everyday contexts. Can also mean ball or globe.
地球は完全な球ではない。
The Earth is not a perfect sphere.
A particular area of activity, interest, or expertise.
The most versatile word for a field or domain of activity, study, or work.
A particular social world or group of people with shared interests.
Literally 'world', but commonly used for a distinct social sphere or community.
The English 'sphere' in phrases like 'sphere of influence' or 'social sphere' is not directly translated as 球. Use 分野, 領域, or 世界 depending on the nuance.
分野 is the most common and neutral word for a field or domain. 領域 implies a more clearly bounded area, often with a sense of territory or specialized domain.
この球の体積を計算してください。
Please calculate the volume of this sphere.
Emphasizes the three-dimensional spherical shape, often used in technical or descriptive contexts.
その彫刻は完全な球体だ。
The sculpture is a perfect sphere.
Refers to a spherical shape or form, often used to describe objects that are sphere-like.
このランプは球形をしている。
This lamp has a spherical shape.
彼は科学の分野で有名だ。
He is famous in the sphere of science.
新しいビジネス分野に進出する。
We will expand into a new sphere of business.
Often used for a sphere of influence, territory, or a specialized area. Slightly more formal than 分野.
それは私の専門領域外です。
That is outside my sphere of expertise.
Means scope or range, and can be used for a sphere of activity or responsibility.
この問題は私の担当範囲を超えている。
This problem is beyond my sphere of responsibility.
彼は芸術の世界でよく知られている。
He is well-known in the art sphere.
子供は自分の世界に閉じこもりがちだ。
Children tend to retreat into their own sphere.
A suffix meaning 'world' or 'circle', used in compounds like 政界 (political sphere) or 財界 (financial sphere).
彼は政界に影響力を持っている。
He has influence in the political sphere.
A suffix meaning 'sphere' or 'zone', often used in formal or technical contexts like 経済圏 (economic sphere).
この地域は独自の文化圏を形成している。
This region forms its own cultural sphere.