Translation guide
A variable resistor is an electronic component whose resistance can be adjusted. In Japanese, the most common term is 可変抵抗器, but shorter forms like 可変抵抗 or ポテンショメータ are also used depending on context.
The learner wants to refer to a variable resistor in a general or technical context.
The learner specifically means a rheostat, often used for current control.
可変抵抗器 is the generic Japanese term, while ポテンショメータ is a loanword often used for variable resistors with three terminals (voltage dividers). In casual conversation among engineers, ポテンショ (potensho) may be used as an abbreviation.
ポテンショで電圧を分圧する。
Divide the voltage with a pot.
In informal technical settings, 可変抵抗器 is sometimes shortened to 可変 (kahen) when the context is clear, but this can be ambiguous. ポテンショ is a common abbreviation for ポテンショメータ.
Standard technical term for a variable resistor. Used in electronics and engineering.
この回路には可変抵抗器が使われています。
A variable resistor is used in this circuit.
Shorter form of 可変抵抗器, often used in technical documents or when the context is clear.
可変抵抗の値を調整してください。
Please adjust the value of the variable resistor.
Loanword from English 'potentiometer'. Commonly used in electronics, especially for rotary or slider types.
音量調節にはポテンショメータを使います。
We use a potentiometer for volume control.
Older term derived from 'variohm'. Rarely used today; may appear in historical contexts.
昔のラジオにはバリオームが使われていた。
Old radios used variohms.
Direct loanword for 'rheostat'. Used when distinguishing from a potentiometer.
レオスタットで電流を制御します。
We control the current with a rheostat.
Can also refer to a rheostat in context, but less specific.
この可変抵抗器はレオスタットとして動作します。
This variable resistor operates as a rheostat.