At the A1 level, you don't need to use the word '病原性の' (pathogenic) yourself. It is a very difficult and scientific word. Instead, you should know simple words like '病気' (byōki - sick/illness) and 'バイ菌' (baikin - germs). If you see '病原性の' in a book, just think: 'This is a scientific way to say something causes a sickness.' It is like a 'bad germ' that makes people or animals ill. You might see it on a sign in a zoo or a hospital, but you can usually understand the meaning from the '病' (sick) kanji.
At the A2 level, you are starting to read more news and formal signs. You might see '病原性の' in a news report about a 'bad virus' or 'bad food.' Remember that '病' means 'sick' and '原' means 'start' or 'source.' So, '病原' is the 'source of sickness.' When you see '病原性の細菌' (byōgensei no saikin), it means 'bacteria that starts a sickness.' You don't need to use it in daily speaking, but when you hear it on TV, know that the speaker is talking about a serious health topic, not just a small cold.
At the B1 level, you should be able to understand '病原性の' in context and use it in formal writing or discussions about health. This word is an adjective that means 'pathogenic.' It is used to describe microorganisms like bacteria (細菌) or viruses (ウイルス) that cause disease. You will often see it in phrases like '病原性の強い' (highly pathogenic) or '病原性のない' (non-pathogenic). Using this word instead of just 'bad' or 'sick' makes your Japanese sound more professional and precise, especially when talking about biology, medicine, or food safety.
At the B2 level, you should have a firm grasp of '病原性の' and its related terms. You should distinguish it from '感染性の' (infectious) and '毒性の' (toxic). You will encounter this word in academic texts, detailed news reports, and medical documents. You should also be familiar with compound words like '高病原性鳥インフルエンザ' (Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza). At this level, you are expected to understand the nuance that 'pathogenic' refers specifically to the biological mechanism of causing disease, and you should be able to use it correctly in a presentation or a formal essay.
At the C1 level, '病原性の' is a standard part of your technical vocabulary. You should be able to discuss the 'pathogenicity' (病原性) of various strains in detail, using terms like '病原性の獲得' (acquisition of pathogenicity) or '病原性の変異' (mutation of pathogenicity). You should understand the legal and social implications when this word is used in government policy or international health regulations. Your usage should be flawless, reflecting an understanding of its role in microbiology and epidemiology. You can participate in complex debates about biosafety levels and the handling of pathogenic materials.
At the C2 level, you use '病原性の' with the same precision as a native-speaking professional in a medical or scientific field. You are comfortable with the most obscure technical applications, such as '条件的病原性' (conditional pathogenicity) or '病原性の消失' (loss of pathogenicity/attenuation). You can read and critique high-level scientific research papers in Japanese that use this terminology to describe molecular mechanisms. This word is no longer a 'vocabulary item' but a precise tool for articulating complex biological concepts in professional, academic, or high-level journalistic contexts.

病原性の in 30 Sekunden

  • A formal medical term meaning 'pathogenic' or 'disease-causing,' used to describe microorganisms like bacteria and viruses.
  • Commonly found in news reports about food safety, bird flu, and scientific research regarding infection mechanisms.
  • Formed from the kanji for 'disease' (病), 'source' (原), and 'nature' (性) plus the particle 'no'.
  • Must be distinguished from 'infectious' (contagiousness) and should not be used to describe a person's general feeling of sickness.

The Japanese term 病原性の (びょうげんせいの - byōgensei no) is a specialized adjectival phrase primarily used in medical, biological, and scientific contexts. At its core, it describes something—usually a microorganism like a bacterium, virus, or fungus—that has the inherent capacity to cause disease in a host organism. While English speakers might use 'germy' or 'infectious' in casual conversation, 病原性の is much more precise, aligning directly with the English word 'pathogenic.'

Etymological Breakdown
病 (Byō): Disease or illness.
原 (Gen): Source, origin, or cause.
性 (Sei): Nature, property, or characteristic.
の (No): The possessive/attributive particle that turns the noun 'pathogenicity' into an adjective.

In everyday life, you won't hear a child complaining about a 'pathogenic' cold; instead, this word appears in news reports about food poisoning (e.g., pathogenic E. coli), academic journals discussing immunology, or government health advisories regarding new viral strains. It implies a level of scientific certainty and biological mechanism. When a scientist identifies a new strain of bacteria in a water supply, they will test to see if it is pathogenic (病原性がある) or non-pathogenic (非病原性の).

"この細菌は非常に強力な病原性の特徴を持っています。"
(This bacterium possesses highly potent pathogenic characteristics.)

Understanding this word is crucial for B1 learners because it bridges the gap between basic health vocabulary and the formal Japanese used in media and professional environments. It allows you to discuss public health issues, read scientific labels, and understand the severity of medical conditions described in official documents. The term is almost always followed by a noun, such as 微生物 (microorganism), 細菌 (bacteria), or 大腸菌 (E. coli).

Common Collocations
  • 病原性の高い (Highly pathogenic)
  • 病原性の有無 (Presence or absence of pathogenicity)
  • 強毒性病原性の (Highly virulent and pathogenic)

"研究者はそのウイルスの病原性の強さを測定した。"
(Researchers measured the strength of the virus's pathogenicity.)

Finally, it is worth noting that in Japanese, the noun form 病原性 (びょうげんせい) is often used with the verb ある (to have) or 持つ (to possess). For example, "病原性がある細菌" (Bacteria that have pathogenicity) is synonymous with "病原性の細菌" (Pathogenic bacteria). The choice depends on the desired sentence flow and formality.

Using 病原性の correctly requires understanding its role as an attributive adjective (a noun modifier). Because it ends in 'の', it functions like a possessive, linking the concept of 'pathogenicity' to the object it describes. It is rarely used as a standalone predicate (you wouldn't say 'this bacteria is pathogenic' using just 'no'; you would use 'pathogenicity has/exists').

Grammar Pattern: [Noun] + の + [Target Noun]
This is the standard way to describe a scientific subject. For example, 病原性の微生物 (Pathogenic microorganisms). Here, '微生物' is the noun being modified by the state of being pathogenic.

"病原性の大腸菌が検出されたため、その工場は閉鎖された。"
(The factory was closed because pathogenic E. coli was detected.)

When discussing the degree of pathogenicity, you often shift to the noun form. For instance, to say something is 'highly pathogenic,' you use 高病原性の (こうびょうげんせいの). This is a common compound word in news reports about avian influenza (bird flu).

"このワクチンは、病原性のないウイルスを利用して作られています。"
(This vaccine is made using a non-pathogenic virus.)

Note the use of ない in the example above. To say 'non-pathogenic,' you can say 病原性のない (lacking pathogenicity) or the more formal prefix 非病原性の (non-pathogenic). Both are common in technical writing. In a clinical report, a doctor might write about the 'pathogenic potential' of a specific fungal growth in a patient's lungs.

Comparison: Pathogenic vs. Virulent
While 病原性の refers to the ability to cause disease, 毒性の (どくせいの) or 強毒性の refers to the severity or harmfulness of that disease. A pathogenic virus might cause a mild cold, while a 'highly virulent' (強毒性の) one might be lethal.

When constructing your own sentences, remember that this is a formal word. Use it when you want to sound clinical, precise, or academic. If you are just saying someone caught a cold, stick to 風邪 (kaze) or ウイルス (virus). Use 病原性の when the biological mechanism of the disease is the focus of the discussion.

While 病原性の might seem like a word destined only for textbooks, it has a significant presence in Japanese daily media, especially during public health crises or food safety scares. Understanding where you'll encounter it helps contextualize its importance.

1. NHK News and Daily Newspapers
Whenever there is an outbreak of bird flu (鳥インフルエンザ), the term 高病原性 (Highly pathogenic) is repeated constantly. News anchors will discuss the 'highly pathogenic avian influenza' (高病原性鳥インフルエンザ) to explain why thousands of chickens are being culled. It signifies a high mortality rate and severe risk.

"ニュース速報:県内の養鶏場で高病原性鳥インフルエンザが確認されました。"
(Breaking News: Highly pathogenic avian influenza has been confirmed at a poultry farm in the prefecture.)

2. Food Safety Labels and Warnings: In Japan, food safety is taken very seriously. If you read reports from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW), or see signs in a supermarket during a recall, you might see 病原性大腸菌 (Pathogenic E. coli) mentioned. This informs the public that the bacteria found isn't the harmless kind naturally found in the gut, but a specific strain that causes illness.

3. Science Documentaries and Education: Educational programs like 'NHK Special' or science channels on YouTube frequently use this term when explaining how the immune system works. They describe how white blood cells recognize pathogenic invaders to protect the body. In this context, it is often paired with 異物 (foreign matter) or 侵入者 (invader).

"免疫システムは、病原性のある微生物を識別して攻撃します。"
(The immune system identifies and attacks pathogenic microorganisms.)

4. Environmental Health: Discussions about water quality (水質) often involve testing for 病原性微生物. If you are reading a report about the safety of a local river or well water, this word will appear in the safety standards section. It acts as a formal gatekeeper for what is considered 'safe' versus 'hazardous' water.

In summary, while you won't use it to talk about your sniffles to a friend, you will hear it whenever the conversation turns to public safety, scientific research, or serious medical diagnoses. It is a 'high-value' word for anyone living in Japan or following Japanese news.

Because 病原性の is a technical term, English speakers often make mistakes by overusing it or confusing it with similar-sounding but semantically different words. Here are the most frequent pitfalls to avoid.

Mistake 1: Using it to describe a person's health
In English, you might say "I feel sick." In Japanese, you use 具合が悪い (guai ga warui) or 病気です (byōki desu). You should never say "私は病原性です" (I am pathogenic). This would imply that you are a biological weapon or a source of disease, not that you are feeling unwell.

❌ "彼は病原性の男だ。" (He is a pathogenic man.)
✅ "彼は感染症にかかっている。" (He has an infectious disease.)

Mistake 2: Confusing 'Pathogenic' with 'Infectious' (感染性). While related, they are not interchangeable. 病原性 refers to the ability to cause disease, while 感染性 refers to the ability to spread. A bacterium could be highly pathogenic (kills the host quickly) but not very infectious (doesn't spread easily). Using the wrong one can lead to confusion in a medical or scientific report.

Mistake 3: Mistaking 病原性の for 有害な (yūgai na - harmful). 'Harmful' is a broad term that could apply to chemicals, bad advice, or physical objects. 'Pathogenic' is strictly biological. You wouldn't say 'pathogenic smoke' (病原性の煙); you would say 'harmful smoke' (有害な煙).

Mistake 4: Pronunciation/Kanji Errors
Learners often confuse 原 (Gen - source) with 元 (Moto - origin). While they mean similar things, 病原 is a fixed medical term. Also, ensure you don't confuse 性 (Sei - nature) with 生 (Sei - life). Though both are read as 'sei', the Kanji for 'nature/characteristic' is essential here.

To avoid these mistakes, always think: "Am I talking about a biological agent causing a disease in a formal context?" If yes, 病原性の is your word. If you are talking about being sick, feeling bad, or something just being 'gross,' look for other terms.

In Japanese, as in English, there are several words that overlap with 病原性の. Choosing the right one depends on whether you are focusing on the cause, the spread, or the effect of the disease.

感染性の (Kansensei no)
Meaning: Infectious / Contagious.
Usage: Used when describing how easily a disease moves from one host to another.
Example: "感染性の高いウイルス" (A highly infectious virus).
毒性のある (Dokusei no aru)
Meaning: Toxic / Virulent.
Usage: Focuses on the 'poisonous' or deadly nature of the agent. This can apply to biological toxins (like snake venom) or the severity of a pathogen.
Example: "毒性の強いクモ" (A highly toxic spider).
有害な (Yūgai na)
Meaning: Harmful / Detrimental.
Usage: A very broad term for anything that causes harm. Not limited to biology.
Example: "有害な物質" (Harmful substances).

When you want to be very specific about how something causes disease, you might encounter these more advanced terms:

  • 伝染性の (Densen-sei no): Specifically 'communicable' or 'contagious.' Often used for diseases that spread through a population (like a plague).
  • 致死性の (Chishisei no): 'Lethal' or 'Fatal.' Focuses entirely on the fact that the pathogen causes death. "致死性の高い病気" (A disease with a high fatality rate).
  • 非病原性の (Hi-byōgensei no): The direct antonym. 'Non-pathogenic.' Used for 'good' bacteria or neutralized viruses used in vaccines.

In a casual setting, if you want to say something is 'gross' or 'full of germs,' you might use 不潔な (fuketsu na) or バイ菌だらけ (baikin-darake). These are much more common in daily conversation than the clinical 病原性の.

"この菌は病原性の代わりに、腸内環境を整える働きがあります。"
(Instead of being pathogenic, this bacterium works to improve the intestinal environment.)

By mastering these distinctions, you can navigate medical discussions in Japanese with high precision, ensuring you convey exactly the type of 'badness' or 'biological activity' you are referring to.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

The kanji '原' originally depicted a spring flowing out of a cliff, signifying a 'source.' In '病原性,' it literally means the 'spring' or 'source' from which the illness flows.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /baɪəʊˈdʒɛnɪk/
US /ˌpæθəˈdʒɛnɪk/
In Japanese (びょうげんせいの), the pitch is typically High-Low-Low-Low-Low-Low (Atamadaka or Heiban depending on the dialect, but usually relatively flat in professional speech).
Reimt sich auf
共生 (Kyōsei) 養成 (Yōsei) 恒常性 (Kōjōsei) 可能性 (Kanōsei) 感受性 (Kanjusei) 生産性 (Seisansei) 安全性 (Anzensei) 必要性 (Hitsuyōsei)
Häufige Fehler
  • Pronouncing 'Byō' as two syllables 'Bi-yo'. It should be one long syllable.
  • Forgetting the long vowel in 'Byō'.
  • Pronouncing 'sei' as 'say' instead of 'seh-ee'.
  • Misplacing the 'no' particle or omitting it.
  • Confusing the pitch with 'Byōin' (hospital).

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 4/5

Requires knowledge of N2-level Kanji like '原' and '性' in a technical context.

Schreiben 5/5

Writing the kanji correctly and using the 'no' particle appropriately takes practice.

Sprechen 3/5

Pronunciation is straightforward, but finding the right context to use it is tricky.

Hören 4/5

Often spoken quickly in news reports, making it hard to catch without context.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

病気 (Byōki) 細菌 (Saikin) 原因 (Gen'in) 性質 (Seishitsu) ウイルス (Uirusu)

Als Nächstes lernen

感染症 (Kansenshō) 免疫力 (Men'ekiryoku) 抗生物質 (Kōseibushitsu) 潜伏期間 (Senpuku kikan) 致死率 (Chishiritsu)

Fortgeschritten

毒素因子 (Dokuso inshi) 形質転換 (Keishitsu tenkan) 人獣共通感染症 (Zoonosis) バイオハザード (Biohazard) 変異株 (Hen'ikabu)

Wichtige Grammatik

Noun + の + Noun (Possessive/Attributive)

病原性の特徴 (Pathogenic characteristics)

Noun + がある (Existence of property)

この菌は病原性がある。(This bacteria has pathogenicity.)

Noun + を持つ (Possession of trait)

ウイルスが病原性を持つ。(A virus possesses pathogenicity.)

Negative form of 'no-adjective'

病原性のないウイルス (A non-pathogenic virus)

Compound Noun formation

高病原性鳥インフルエンザ (Highly pathogenic avian influenza)

Beispiele nach Niveau

1

これは病原性のバイ菌です。

This is a pathogenic germ.

Simple A is B sentence structure.

2

病原性のものに気をつけてください。

Please be careful of pathogenic things.

Using 'mono' to refer to things.

3

その水には病原性の菌がいます。

There are pathogenic bacteria in that water.

Describing location with 'ni wa'.

4

病原性のウイルスは怖いです。

Pathogenic viruses are scary.

Adjective + Noun + Desu.

5

病原性のない菌もあります。

There are also non-pathogenic bacteria.

Using 'nai' to negate pathogenicity.

6

手を洗って病原性の菌を落としましょう。

Let's wash our hands and get rid of pathogenic bacteria.

Te-form for sequence of actions.

7

これは病原性のテストです。

This is a test for pathogenicity.

Noun + no + Noun.

8

病原性の力は強いですか?

Is the pathogenic power strong?

Simple question form.

1

病原性の細菌が食べ物についていました。

Pathogenic bacteria were on the food.

Past tense of 'imasu'.

2

この薬は病原性のウイルスを倒します。

This medicine defeats pathogenic viruses.

Subject-Object-Verb structure.

3

病原性の高いウイルスが流行しています。

A highly pathogenic virus is spreading.

Using 'takai' to describe degree.

4

科学者は病原性の研究をしています。

Scientists are doing research on pathogenicity.

Te-iru form for ongoing action.

5

病原性のないウイルスを使ってワクチンを作ります。

They make vaccines using non-pathogenic viruses.

Using 'tsukatte' as 'using'.

6

あの川には病原性の微生物がいるかもしれません。

There might be pathogenic microorganisms in that river.

Using 'kamoshiremasen' for possibility.

7

病原性の有無を調べることが大切です。

It is important to check the presence or absence of pathogenicity.

Koto ga taisetsu desu (It is important to...).

8

病原性の種類はたくさんあります。

There are many types of pathogenicity.

Arimasu for existence of inanimate things.

1

病原性の強い大腸菌が検出されたため、出荷が停止された。

Shipments were suspended because highly pathogenic E. coli was detected.

Using 'tame' for reason/cause.

2

この新しい病気は、病原性の変異によって引き起こされた。

This new disease was caused by a mutation in pathogenicity.

Passive voice 'hikikosareta'.

3

研究チームは、その細菌が病原性の特徴を持っていることを突き止めた。

The research team identified that the bacteria possesses pathogenic characteristics.

Using 'koto o tsukitometa' to mean identified/found out.

4

病原性のない微生物を環境浄化に利用する研究が進んでいる。

Research is progressing on using non-pathogenic microorganisms for environmental cleanup.

Using 'ni riyō suru' (use for a purpose).

5

医師は、患者の体内から病原性の真菌が見つかったと報告した。

The doctor reported that pathogenic fungi were found in the patient's body.

Reported speech using 'to hōkoku shita'.

6

空気中には、目に見えない病原性の粒子が浮遊していることがある。

In the air, invisible pathogenic particles can sometimes be floating.

Using 'koto ga aru' for 'sometimes happens'.

7

病原性の強さを評価するために、動物実験が行われた。

Animal experiments were conducted to evaluate the strength of pathogenicity.

Using 'tame ni' for purpose.

8

そのウイルスは、人間に対しては病原性のないことがわかった。

It was found that the virus is not pathogenic to humans.

Using 'ni taishite wa' (regarding/towards).

1

高病原性鳥インフルエンザの感染拡大を防ぐため、迅速な対応が求められている。

Prompt action is required to prevent the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza.

Compound noun 'Kō-byōgensei'.

2

病原性の進化を理解することは、将来のパンデミックを予測する鍵となる。

Understanding the evolution of pathogenicity is the key to predicting future pandemics.

Using 'kagi to naru' (becomes the key).

3

この論文は、特定の遺伝子が病原性の発現にどのように関与しているかを論じている。

This paper discusses how specific genes are involved in the expression of pathogenicity.

Embedded question 'donoyōni ... ka'.

4

病原性の強弱は、宿主の免疫状態によって大きく左右される。

The degree of pathogenicity is greatly influenced by the host's immune status.

Passive voice 'sayū sareru'.

5

政府は病原性の高い微生物の取り扱いに関する規制を強化した。

The government tightened regulations regarding the handling of highly pathogenic microorganisms.

Using 'ni kansuru' (related to).

6

その細菌は通常は無害だが、特定の条件下で病原性の性質を現す。

The bacteria is usually harmless, but it manifests pathogenic properties under specific conditions.

Using 'jōkenka de' (under conditions).

7

ワクチン開発においては、病原性の部位を特定することが不可欠である。

In vaccine development, identifying the pathogenic site is indispensable.

Using 'ni oite wa' (in/at the context of).

8

抗生物質の使用が、逆に病原性の高い耐性菌を生み出すリスクがある。

There is a risk that the use of antibiotics may conversely create highly pathogenic resistant bacteria.

Using 'gyaku ni' (conversely).

1

病原性の分子メカニズムが解明されることで、新たな治療薬の道が開かれた。

The elucidation of the molecular mechanisms of pathogenicity has paved the way for new therapeutic drugs.

Using 'koto de' to indicate means/cause.

2

宿主と病原性の相互作用を解析し、感染成立のプロセスを詳細に記述した。

We analyzed the interaction between the host and pathogenicity and described the infection process in detail.

Formal verb 'kaiseki shi' (analyzed).

3

この菌株は、既存のワクチンを回避するような病原性の変異を遂げている。

This strain has undergone a pathogenic mutation that evades existing vaccines.

Using 'hen'i o togeru' (to undergo/achieve mutation).

4

病原性の減弱を目的とした継代培養が行われ、生ワクチンが開発された。

Subculturing aimed at the attenuation of pathogenicity was performed, and a live vaccine was developed.

Technical term 'gen-jaku' (attenuation).

5

環境中における病原性の維持と伝播のダイナミクスを数学モデルでシミュレーションした。

We simulated the dynamics of pathogenicity maintenance and transmission in the environment using a mathematical model.

Using 'ni okeru' (in/within).

6

バイオセーフティーレベル3の施設では、高度な病原性の研究が厳格に管理されている。

In Bio-Safety Level 3 facilities, research on highly pathogenic agents is strictly managed.

Using 'kōdo na' (high-level/advanced).

7

病原性の発現に関わる毒素因子の同定は、公衆衛生上の最優先事項である。

The identification of virulence factors involved in the expression of pathogenicity is a top public health priority.

Using 'ni kakawaru' (involved in/related to).

8

不顕性感染であっても、病原性の潜在的なリスクを無視することはできない。

Even in the case of asymptomatic infection, the potential risk of pathogenicity cannot be ignored.

Using 'de atte mo' (even if it is).

1

病原性の進化生物学的考察によれば、宿主の致死率と伝播効率の間にはトレードオフが存在する。

According to evolutionary biological considerations of pathogenicity, a trade-off exists between host lethality and transmission efficiency.

Academic phrase 'ni yoreba' (according to).

2

ゲノム編集技術を用いて、病原性の決定因子をノックアウトする試みがなされている。

Attempts are being made to knock out the determinants of pathogenicity using genome editing technology.

Passive 'kokoromi ga nasarete iru'.

3

病原性の水平伝播は、細菌集団における急速な形質転換を可能にする。

Horizontal transmission of pathogenicity enables rapid transformation within bacterial populations.

Technical term 'suihei denpa'.

4

当該ウイルスは、種の壁を越える際に病原性の劇的な増大を示す傾向がある。

The virus in question tends to show a dramatic increase in pathogenicity when crossing species barriers.

Formal 'tōgai' (the said/concerned).

5

病原性の解明は、単なる医学的知見に留まらず、社会経済的な安全保障にも直結する課題である。

The elucidation of pathogenicity is not merely a matter of medical knowledge; it is an issue directly linked to socio-economic security.

Using 'ni todomarazu' (not limited to).

6

宿主の遺伝的多様性が、病原性の波及を抑制する自然の防波堤として機能する。

Host genetic diversity functions as a natural seawall that suppresses the spread of pathogenicity.

Metaphorical use of 'bōhatei' (seawall).

7

病原性の潜在化と再活性化のメカニズムは、依然として現代医学における大きな謎の一つである。

The mechanisms of pathogenicity latency and reactivation remain one of the great mysteries in modern medicine.

Using 'izen to shite' (still/as ever).

8

倫理的観点から、人為的な病原性の強化(機能獲得実験)には国際的な監視が必要である。

From an ethical standpoint, international surveillance is necessary for the artificial enhancement of pathogenicity (gain-of-function experiments).

Using 'kan-ten kara' (from the viewpoint of).

Häufige Kollokationen

病原性の細菌
病原性のウイルス
高病原性
病原性の有無
病原性の強さ
病原性の変異
病原性のない
病原性の発現
病原性の高い
病原性の識別

Häufige Phrasen

病原性を有する

— To possess pathogenicity. A formal way to say something is pathogenic.

この菌は強い病原性を有している。

病原性が認められる

— Pathogenicity is observed/recognized. Used in official reports.

検査の結果、病原性が認められました。

病原性を失う

— To lose pathogenicity. Often refers to attenuated viruses in vaccines.

ウイルスが変異して病原性を失った。

病原性を獲得する

— To acquire pathogenicity. Used when a harmless microbe becomes harmful.

細菌が遺伝子交換により病原性を獲得した。

病原性を抑える

— To suppress pathogenicity. Used in the context of treatment or prevention.

薬でウイルスの病原性を抑える。

病原性の解明

— Elucidation of pathogenicity. The process of figuring out how a disease is caused.

病原性の解明に向けた研究が続く。

病原性のリスク

— Risk of pathogenicity. The danger posed by a specific biological agent.

病原性のリスクを最小限にする。

病原性の分類

— Classification of pathogenicity. Categorizing microbes by how dangerous they are.

病原性の分類に基づいた管理。

病原性の進化

— Evolution of pathogenicity. How pathogens change over time to cause disease.

病原性の進化に関する新説。

病原性の評価

— Evaluation of pathogenicity. Assessing the danger of a microbe.

新種のウイルスの病原性を評価する。

Wird oft verwechselt mit

病原性の vs 感染性の (Kansensei no)

Refers to spread (contagiousness), whereas 'byōgensei' refers to the ability to cause disease.

病原性の vs 毒性の (Dokusei no)

Refers to the severity of the harm or toxic nature, often used for poisons as well as pathogens.

病原性の vs 致死性の (Chishisei no)

Specifically refers to the ability to cause death (lethality).

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"病原性を剥ぎ取る"

— To strip away pathogenicity. Often used metaphorically for neutralizing a threat.

科学の力でウイルスの病原性を剥ぎ取る。

Literary/Journalistic
"病原性の牙を剥く"

— To bare the fangs of pathogenicity. Used when a disease suddenly becomes dangerous.

穏やかだったウイルスが病原性の牙を剥いた。

Literary
"病原性の種をまく"

— To sow the seeds of pathogenicity. Used for creating conditions where disease spreads.

不衛生な環境が病原性の種をまくことになる。

Metaphorical
"病原性の影に怯える"

— To be frightened by the shadow of pathogenicity. Used for public fear of outbreaks.

人々は目に見えない病原性の影に怯えている。

Journalistic
"病原性の鎖を断ち切る"

— To break the chain of pathogenicity. Used for stopping an infection cycle.

徹底した消毒で病原性の鎖を断ち切る。

Rhetorical
"病原性のベールを脱ぐ"

— To take off the veil of pathogenicity. Used when the cause of a mystery disease is found.

ついにその未知の病気が病原性のベールを脱いだ。

Journalistic
"病原性の火種"

— The spark/source of pathogenicity. Used for the origin of an outbreak.

小さな市場が病原性の火種となった。

Metaphorical
"病原性の渦中にある"

— To be in the midst of pathogenicity. Used for being in the middle of an outbreak.

都市全体が病原性の渦中にある。

Journalistic
"病原性の猛威を振るう"

— To exert the fury of pathogenicity. Used when a disease is spreading violently.

インフルエンザが病原性の猛威を振るっている。

Journalistic
"病原性の砦を築く"

— To build a fortress of pathogenicity. Used metaphorically for a place where germs thrive.

汚れた水槽は病原性の砦となりうる。

Metaphorical

Leicht verwechselbar

病原性の vs 病気の (Byōki no)

Both relate to illness.

'Byōki no' describes the state of being sick (a sick person), while 'Byōgensei no' describes the agent that causes the sickness.

病気の子供 (A sick child) vs. 病原性の細菌 (A pathogenic bacterium).

病原性の vs 有害な (Yūgai na)

Both mean 'harmful'.

'Yūgai na' is general harm (smoke, bad books, chemicals). 'Byōgensei no' is strictly biological disease-causing.

有害な物質 (Harmful substance) vs. 病原性のウイルス (Pathogenic virus).

病原性の vs 悪性の (Akusei no)

Both imply a 'bad' medical condition.

'Akusei no' is usually for cancer (malignant) or rapidly worsening conditions. 'Byōgensei no' is for the source of an infection.

悪性腫瘍 (Malignant tumor) vs. 病原性微生物 (Pathogenic microorganism).

病原性の vs 不潔な (Fuketsu na)

Dirty things often have pathogens.

'Fuketsu na' is about cleanliness/sanitation. 'Byōgensei no' is about biological capability.

不潔なトイレ (Unsanitary toilet) vs. 病原性の菌 (Pathogenic bacteria).

病原性の vs 伝染性の (Densensei no)

Both relate to catching diseases.

'Densensei no' is an older or more formal term for 'contagious'. It focuses on transmission through a population.

伝染性の病気 (A contagious disease) vs. 病原性の強さ (Strength of pathogenicity).

Satzmuster

B1

[Subject]は病原性の[Noun]です。

これは病原性の細菌です。

B1

[Subject]には病原性の[Noun]が含まれています。

この水には病原性の微生物が含まれています。

B2

[Subject]は病原性が高いことで知られている。

そのウイルスは病原性が高いことで知られている。

B2

病原性の有無を確認するために、[Action]を行う。

病原性の有無を確認するために、検査を行う。

C1

[Subject]が病原性を獲得するプロセスを研究する。

細菌が病原性を獲得するプロセスを研究する。

C1

病原性の変異に伴い、[Result]が生じた。

病原性の変異に伴い、感染力の増大が生じた。

C2

病原性の発現を分子レベルで制御する試み。

病原性の発現を分子レベルで制御する試みがなされている。

C2

宿主の免疫応答が病原性の進化に与える影響。

宿主の免疫応答が病原性の進化に与える影響を考察する。

Wortfamilie

Substantive

病原 (Byōgen) - Pathogen/Source of disease
病原体 (Byōgentai) - Pathogenic agent/Microbe
病原性 (Byōgensei) - Pathogenicity
病気 (Byōki) - Illness

Verben

病む (Yamu) - To fall ill
病原性を有する (Byōgensei o yūsuru) - To possess pathogenicity

Adjektive

病的な (Byōteki na) - Pathological/Morbid
病弱な (Byōjaku na) - Sickly/Weakly

Verwandt

感染 (Kansen) - Infection
毒性 (Dokusei) - Toxicity
免疫 (Men'eki) - Immunity
細菌 (Saikin) - Bacteria
ウイルス (Uirusu) - Virus

So verwendest du es

frequency

Common in medical, scientific, and news domains; rare in casual daily life.

Häufige Fehler
  • 私は病原性です。 私は病気です。

    You are saying 'I am pathogenic' (I cause disease to others) instead of 'I am sick.'

  • 病原性細菌 (without 'no' in a sentence) 病原性の細菌

    While '病原性細菌' works as a compound noun, in a sentence like 'This is a pathogenic bacteria,' you need the particle 'の'.

  • 病原性の煙 (Pathogenic smoke) 有害な煙 (Harmful smoke)

    Pathogenicity only applies to biological organisms, not chemicals or physical substances.

  • 病原性の風邪 (Pathogenic cold) ひどい風邪 (A bad cold)

    'Pathogenic' is too technical for a common cold. It sounds weirdly clinical in a casual context.

  • Using 'Byōgensei' to mean 'infectious'. 感染性 (Infectious)

    Something can be pathogenic but not infectious (e.g., a soil bacteria that causes disease if it enters a wound but doesn't spread between people).

Tipps

Always use 'no'

Remember that '病原性' is a noun. When you want to describe a bacteria or virus, you must add 'の' to make it '病原性の細菌'. Without 'の', it is just the abstract concept of 'pathogenicity'.

Scientific Register

Use this word when you want to sound like an expert or when you are summarizing a scientific article. It shows a higher level of Japanese proficiency than using simple words like 'warui' (bad).

Kanji Breakdown

Break it into parts: 病 (Sick) + 原 (Origin) + 性 (Nature). If you remember these three, you can easily reconstruct the word even if you forget the exact reading.

News Keywords

When you hear 'Byōgensei,' expect to hear about 'Kansen' (infection), 'Uirusu' (virus), or 'Yōkei-jō' (poultry farm) shortly after. These words often appear together in news clusters.

Formal Reports

In formal writing, '病原性を有する' (possessing pathogenicity) is more sophisticated than '病原性がある'. Use the former in essays or business reports.

Pathogenic vs. Infectious

Be precise. Use '病原性の' for the cause of disease and '感染性の' for the spread. Mixing them up can change the technical meaning of your sentence.

Food Recalls

If you see '病原性' on a supermarket notice, it means there is a serious biological hazard. Do not ignore these signs; they usually involve E. coli or Salmonella.

The 'Gen' Factor

Associate 'Gen' (原) with 'Generator.' A 'Byo-Gen' is a 'Sickness Generator.' The 'Sei' makes it the 'Nature' of that generator.

Doctor's Visits

If a doctor uses this word, they are being very specific. It usually means they have identified the exact cause of your infection through laboratory testing.

Word Family

Learn '病原体' (the agent) and '病原性' (the trait) together. This helps you understand both the 'subject' and the 'description' in medical Japanese.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of 'BYO' (Sick) + 'GEN' (Generator) + 'SEI' (Status). A 'Sick-Generator-Status' thing is pathogenic.

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a tiny green monster (Byō) holding a starting pistol (Gen) and wearing a scientist's badge (Sei). He is the 'Official Source of Sickness.'

Word Web

Bacteria Virus Lab Microscope Sick Hospital Medicine Vaccine

Herausforderung

Try to find three news articles in Japanese about 'Bird Flu' or 'Food Recalls' and count how many times '病原性' appears.

Wortherkunft

The term is a Sino-Japanese compound (Kango). '病' (disease) and '原' (origin) were combined to translate the Western concept of 'pathogen' during the Meiji era modernization of medicine. The suffix '性' (nature) was added to create 'pathogenicity.'

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: The nature of the source of disease.

Japonic (Sino-Japanese vocabulary)

Kultureller Kontext

When discussing 'pathogenic' traits, be careful not to sound alarmist. In Japan, precision is valued over sensationalism in medical contexts.

In English, 'pathogenic' is almost purely scientific. In Japan, the equivalent '病原性の' is slightly more common in general news because of the country's focus on food safety and public health protocols.

Cells at Work! (Hataraku Saibou) - An anime where pathogenic bacteria are personified as villains. NHK Special: The Human Body - A documentary series that explains pathogenic interactions. Medical dramas like 'Doctor X' often mention pathogenic strains in complex cases.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Medical Laboratory

  • 病原性の同定
  • 培養検査の結果
  • 菌株の分類
  • 感受性テスト

News Report (Health)

  • 集団食中毒の発生
  • 高病原性ウイルスの流行
  • 感染経路の特定
  • 注意を呼びかける

Biology Classroom

  • 微生物の性質
  • 宿主と病原体
  • 遺伝子の働き
  • 進化のプロセス

Food Safety Inspection

  • 基準値を超える菌
  • 加熱殺菌の徹底
  • 汚染源の調査
  • リコール(回収)

Hospital Consultation

  • 強い病原性を持つ菌
  • 適切な抗生剤
  • 隔離措置の必要性
  • 治療方針の説明

Gesprächseinstiege

"最近、ニュースで高病原性のインフルエンザについて聞きましたか?"

"病原性のない細菌を研究することは、医学にとってどう重要だと思いますか?"

"食品のパッケージに『病原性』という言葉があったら、どう反応しますか?"

"病原性の強いウイルスから身を守るために、どんな対策をしていますか?"

"科学の進歩で、将来すべての病原性の微生物を消すことができると思いますか?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

もし自分が科学者だったら、どのような病原性の研究をしたいですか?その理由も書いてください。

『病原性の』という言葉を初めてニュースで聞いた時のことを覚えていますか?どのような印象を持ちましたか?

私たちの周りにある『病原性のない』良い細菌について、知っていることを書いてみましょう。

感染症の流行を防ぐために、社会が『病原性の』リスクをどう管理すべきか、あなたの意見を述べてください。

『病原性』という言葉を使って、架空のSF映画のあらすじを書いてみてください。

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

No. In Japanese, '病原性の' describes the microorganism (like a virus or bacteria) that causes the disease, not the person who is suffering from it. If a person is sick, use '病気の' or '具合が悪い'. Using '病原性の' for a person would make them sound like a biological weapon.

'病原体' (Byōgentai) is the noun for the actual agent (the pathogen itself, like the physical virus). '病原性' (Byōgensei) is the noun for the *property* or *nature* of being pathogenic. So, '病原体は病原性を持っている' (The pathogen has pathogenicity).

Rarely. It is a technical and formal word. You might use it if you are discussing a specific news story about bird flu or food poisoning, but you wouldn't use it to talk about a common cold with your friends.

The most formal way is '非病原性の' (Hi-byōgensei no). In slightly less formal but still technical contexts, you can say '病原性のない' (Byōgensei no nai).

Usually, yes. It refers to biological agents. It can also include fungi (真菌), protozoa (原虫), or even prions. It is not used for chemical poisons or physical injuries.

'高病原性' (Kō-byōgensei) means 'Highly Pathogenic.' It is most commonly heard in the phrase '高病原性鳥インフルエンザ,' referring to strains of bird flu that are extremely deadly to poultry.

Yes. It can describe microorganisms that cause diseases in plants, such as '病原性のカビ' (pathogenic mold) that destroys crops.

Not a single verb. You would use a phrase like '病原性を持たせる' (to make it have pathogenicity) or '病原性を強化する' (to enhance pathogenicity).

The direct opposite is '非病原性' (non-pathogenicity). In a broader sense, you might talk about '有益性' (beneficial nature) for good bacteria.

'毒性の' (Dokusei no) refers to toxicity or virulence. While a pathogen is often toxic, '毒性' can also refer to non-living things like lead or arsenic. '病原性' is specifically about the ability to initiate an infection/disease process.

Teste dich selbst 200 Fragen

writing

Translate to Japanese: 'This water contains pathogenic bacteria.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'Highly pathogenic bird flu is spreading.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using '病原性の' and 'ウイルス'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'It is important to check for the presence of pathogenicity.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'This bacteria is non-pathogenic to humans.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Explain (in Japanese) what '病原性の' means using simpler words.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The mutation caused an increase in pathogenicity.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Researchers are studying the pathogenicity of the new strain.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Wash your hands to remove pathogenic germs.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The pathogenicity of this virus is very strong.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Non-pathogenic bacteria are used in this experiment.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The strength of pathogenicity varies depending on the strain.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Pathogenic E. coli was found in the meat.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'We must prevent the spread of pathogenic agents.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The vaccine uses a virus that has lost its pathogenicity.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Pathogenicity is a key factor in infection.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'This report describes the pathogenicity of the fungus.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Are there any pathogenic microorganisms in this river?'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'The bacteria acquired pathogenicity through gene transfer.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Translate: 'Scientists evaluated the pathogenicity of the sample.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Pathogenic bacteria' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Highly pathogenic bird flu' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Explain to someone that this water might have pathogenic germs.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Pronounce correctly: 病原性の (びょうげんせいの).

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'It has no pathogenicity' formally.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Ask 'Is this virus pathogenic?'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'We are checking for pathogenicity.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The bacteria mutated.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Wash your hands carefully.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The result was negative for pathogenicity.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'It is a dangerous microorganism.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Don't drink that water.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The strength of pathogenicity is high.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The vaccine is safe.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The news mentioned bird flu.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'Microbes are invisible.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The laboratory is strictly managed.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'We found pathogenic E. coli.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The research is important for public health.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Say 'The virus lost its pathogenicity.'

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify the word: '病原性の細菌が検出されました。'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify the subject: '高病原性鳥インフルエンザに注意してください。'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify the degree: 'この菌の病原性は極めて高いです。'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify the location: '養鶏場でウイルスが確認されました。'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify the action: '手を洗って菌を落としましょう。'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and determine if it's pathogenic: 'これは非病原性の菌です。'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify the problem: '病原性大腸菌による食中毒が発生しました。'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify the tool: '顕微鏡で病原体を確認する。'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify the concern: 'ウイルスの変異が心配されています。'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify the result: '検査の結果、病原性は認められませんでした。'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify the target: '人間に対する病原性は低いです。'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify the verb: '細菌が病原性を獲得した。'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify the substance: '病原性の真菌が肺から見つかりました。'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify the state: '不衛生な環境は病原性のリスクを高めます。'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen and identify the news type: 'ニュース速報です。高病原性ウイルスが確認されました。'

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

War das hilfreich?
Noch keine Kommentare. Sei der Erste, der seine Gedanken teilt!