Translation guide
The English word 'virtual' has two main uses: one meaning 'almost or nearly' and another related to computers and digital environments. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each meaning.
Expressing that something is so close to being true or complete that the difference is negligible.
Used before a noun to mean 'in effect' or 'practically'. Common in news and formal contexts.
彼は事実上のリーダーだ。
He is the virtual leader.
Means 'substantial' or 'in substance'. Often used for 'virtual monopoly' or 'virtual control'.
Referring to things that exist or occur in a computer-generated environment or online.
事実上の means 'in effect' or 'practically', while 仮想の means 'simulated' or 'imaginary'. Use 事実上の for situations that are almost real, and 仮想の for computer-generated environments.
彼は事実上の社長だ。
He is the virtual president (in effect).
仮想空間で会話する。
We talk in a virtual space.
Do not use バーチャル or 仮想 to mean 'almost'. These are only for digital/simulated contexts. For 'virtual certainty', use 事実上の確実さ or ほぼ確実.
その会社は市場で実質的な独占状態にある。
The company has a virtual monopoly in the market.
Pattern meaning 'almost equal to'. Flexible and can be used in various contexts.
その結果はほぼ勝利に等しい。
The result is a virtual victory.
Literally 'imaginary' or 'simulated'. Can be used for 'virtual' in the sense of 'not physically existing', but primarily associated with computing. Use with caution for non-computing contexts.
Often strongly associated with computer simulations. For 'almost', prefer 事実上の.
それは仮想の世界だ。
It's a virtual world.
Katakana loanword directly from English. Very common in IT and gaming contexts.
バーチャルリアリティを体験した。
I experienced virtual reality.
The standard kanji term for 'virtual' in computing. Used in compounds like 仮想現実 (virtual reality).
仮想マシンを使う。
I use a virtual machine.
When 'virtual' means 'conducted over the internet' (e.g., virtual meeting), オンライン is often more natural.
会議はオンラインで行われた。
The meeting was held virtually.