プロトタイプ
purototaipu
The English phrase "prototype" is translated into Japanese as プロトタイプ (purototaipu).
The term is used to describe an early sample or model of a product built to test a concept or a process.
Which one should you use?
While プロトタイプ is a common loanword, the native Japanese term 試作 can be used as a more formal or technical alternative to express the concept of a prototype or trial production.
How do you pronounce it?
purototaipu
Did you know?
- The native word 試作 contains the character 試, which is also found in 試験 'exam'. This frames prototyping as a form of 'testing' or 'examination' of an idea.
- In Japanese software development, engineers often use the English-derived プロトタイプ for the concept, but might use モックアップ (mokkuappu) specifically for non-functional visual models.
- In Japanese, the concept of a 'prototype' can sometimes overlap with the word 原型 (genkei), which refers to an 'original form' or 'archetype'.
Examples in context
- 私たちは新しい製品の原型を作っています。We are creating a prototype of a new product.
- 試作品は製品の改良とテストを行うために必要です。Prototypes are necessary for product improvement and testing.
- このゲームはまだプロトタイプだよ。This game is still in prototype stage.
- この試作のデザインはすごくクールだと思うよ。I think the design of this prototype is really cool.
- 新しいプロトタイプが完成しました。Atarashii purototaipu ga kansei shimashita.A new prototype has been completed.
- このプロトタイプをテストしてください。Kono purototaipu o tesuto shite kudasai.Please test this prototype.
- プロトタイプに問題が見つかりました。Purototaipu ni mondai ga mitsukari mashita.A problem was found in the prototype.
Example conversation
Two colleagues are discussing a product development project at the office.
- 美咲 Misaki健太さん、プロトタイプはできましたか？Kenta-san, purototaipu wa dekimashita ka?Kenta, is the prototype ready?
- 健太 Kentaはい、ようやく完成しました。Hai, youyaku kansei shimashita.Yes, it is finally finished.
- 美咲 Misaki素晴らしいですね。すぐに見せてください。Subarashii desu ne. Sugu ni misete kudasai.That's wonderful. Please show it to me right away.
- 健太 Kentaこちらです、美咲さん。Kochira desu, Misaki-san.Here it is, Misaki.
