物質
busshitsu[bɯ̟ɕːi̥t͡sɨ]
The English word 'matter' can be translated into Japanese as 物質 (busshitsu).
In the context of physical substances or the basic structural components of the universe, use 物質. It can refer to a specific kind of substance or the concept of matter itself.
Meaning: to be important (verb)
Which one should you use?
While 物質 refers to physical matter or substances, the formal term 事柄 is used when 'matter' refers to a subject, a thing or a matter of concern.
Related words
How do you pronounce it?
busshitsu
Did you know?
- The character 質 in 物質 is also used in the word for 'collateral' or 'pledge'. This suggests a historical connection between the idea of a physical substance and a tangible guarantee.
- In Japanese science fiction and anime, 物質 is frequently contrasted with 精神 meaning 'spirit' or 'mind'. This pairing is used to explore the duality of the physical and metaphysical worlds.
- While 物質 refers to physical matter, the term for a 'matter of concern' as in 事柄 is almost never used in casual conversation. In daily life, Japanese speakers prefer the simpler word こと.
Examples in context
- 反物質よりも物質が多く存在する理由は不明です。We don't know why there's more matter than antimatter.This sentence is useful for discussing the existence of 物質 in relation to antimatter.Tatoeba #3240009 by Kalamunda, translation #1866418 by Spamster
- この事柄について詳細な情報を提供してください。Please provide detailed information about this matter.
- その事柄に関する報告書を作成してください。Please create a report on that matter.
- その問題について考えなおしてみましょう。Let's reconsider that matter.
- 仕事の件、話したいことがある。Regarding the work matter, I have something to discuss.
Example conversation
Misaki and Ren are studying science together.
- 美咲 Misaki物質って具体的に何のこと？Busshitsu tte gutaiteki ni nan no koto?What specifically is matter?
- 蓮 Ren質量があって、空間を占めるものだよ。Shitsuryou ga atte, kuukan o shimeru mono da yo.It is something that has mass and takes up space.
- 美咲 Misaki空気も物質に含まれるのかな？Kuuki mo busshitsu ni fukumareru no kana?I wonder if air is also included as matter?
- 蓮 Renうん、空気も物質だよ。Un, kuuki mo busshitsu da yo.Yes, air is also matter.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry 物質, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
