Translation guide
The English word "spherical" describes something shaped like a sphere or relating to spheres. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 球形の (きゅうけいの), but other terms are used depending on context, such as mathematics, everyday description, or technical fields.
Describing an object that has the form of a perfect ball or globe.
The most direct and common translation for 'spherical'. Used for objects that are round like a ball.
このランプは球形のデザインです。
This lamp has a spherical design.
Similar to 球形の, but slightly more formal or technical. Often used in scientific contexts.
細胞は球状の形をしている。
The cell has a spherical shape.
Means 'round' or 'circular'. Can be used for spherical objects in casual contexts, but is less precise than 球形の.
丸い can also mean 'circular' (2D), so context is needed to clarify 3D roundness.
地球は丸い。
The Earth is round/spherical.
Refers to a 'spherical body' or 'sphere'. Used in geometry or when emphasizing the solid shape.
この彫刻は完全な球体の形をしている。
This sculpture has a perfectly spherical form.
Used in mathematical or scientific contexts to describe properties of spheres.
Means 'spherical surface' or 'of a spherical surface'. Common in geometry (e.g., spherical triangle).
球面三角法を勉強しています。
I am studying spherical trigonometry.
Also used in mathematics for 'spherical' as in 'spherical coordinates'.
球形座標を使うと計算が簡単になる。
Using spherical coordinates simplifies the calculation.
球形 (きゅうけい) is the most general term for 'spherical shape'. 球状 (きゅうじょう) is slightly more formal and often used in scientific descriptions. 丸い (まるい) is casual and can mean 'round' in both 2D and 3D, so it's less precise.