〜cc
〜cc in 30 Seconds
- 'cc' means cubic centimeter, equal to 1 milliliter (mL).
- Used for engine sizes (e.g., 1000 cc) and medical dosages (e.g., 5 cc).
- Pronounced 'shī shī' (シーシー).
- Not typically used for everyday liquid measurements like water or juice.
The Japanese word 'cc' (シーシー - shī shī) is a direct borrowing from English and refers to a 'cubic centimeter'. This unit of volume is equivalent to one milliliter (mL). It's most commonly encountered in contexts related to measurements, particularly in technical fields, medicine, and for describing engine displacement in vehicles.
- Origin
- Borrowed directly from the English abbreviation 'cc' for cubic centimeter.
- Usage
- Primarily used in technical specifications, medical dosages, and automotive contexts. While milliliters (ミリリットル - miririttoru) are also used, 'cc' is often preferred in specific professional settings or for historical reasons.
このバイクのエンジンは125ccです。
薬の量は5ccにしてください。
- Technical Context
- In engineering and automotive fields, 'cc' is standard for engine displacement. For example, a small car might have an engine of 1500 cc, while a sports car could have 3000 cc or more. This indicates the total volume swept by all the pistons in an engine.
- Medical Context
- In medicine, 'cc' is frequently used for liquid medication dosages. A doctor might prescribe 10 cc of a syrup, or a nurse might administer 2 cc of an injection. This is often interchangeable with milliliters (mL), and in many modern medical settings, mL is preferred for clarity, but 'cc' is still widely understood and used.
- Other Uses
- Occasionally, you might see 'cc' used in scientific contexts for very precise volume measurements, especially in chemistry or physics labs where specific apparatus might be calibrated in cubic centimeters. However, for general laboratory work, milliliters are more common. The key is that 'cc' implies a precise, often technical, measurement of volume.
Using 'cc' in Japanese sentences is straightforward, as it functions as a noun indicating a unit of volume. It typically follows a numerical value. The most common pattern is [Number] + cc.
- Basic Structure
- The simplest way to use 'cc' is to state a quantity. For example, '100 cc' would be written as 百 cc (ひゃくシーシー - hyaku shī shī) or just 100 cc.
- In Technical Specifications
- When describing the specifications of something, like an engine, 'cc' is used directly after the number. For instance, 'This car has a 2000 cc engine' can be expressed as この車は2000 ccのエンジンを搭載しています (Kono kuruma wa nisen shī shī no enjin o tōsai shite imasu).
- In Medical Instructions
- For medical dosages, it follows the number. 'Administer 5 cc of the solution' would be 溶液を5 cc投与してください (Yōeki o go shī shī tōyo shite kudasai). Note that in Japanese, the particle 'o' (を) is often used to mark the direct object, which in this case is the amount of solution.
- With Verbs of Measurement or Capacity
- You might use verbs like 'measure' (測る - hakaru) or 'contain' (入る - hairu) with 'cc'. For example, 'This syringe measures up to 30 cc' could be この注射器は最大30 ccまで測れます (Kono chūshaki wa saidai sanjū shī shī made hakararemasu). The particle 'made' (まで) means 'up to'.
この小型ポンプは1分間に10ccの液体を供給します。
実験で使うビーカーは250ccの容量があります。
- Using Particles
- Particles like 'no' (の) can be used to connect 'cc' to a noun it modifies, though this is less common than simply stating the quantity. For example, 'a 500 cc engine' could be 500 cc のエンジン (go hyaku shī shī no enjin). However, it's more natural to say 500 cc エンジン or 500 cc のエンジン.
- In Questions
- You can ask about quantities using 'nan cc' (何 cc - nan shī shī), meaning 'how many cc'. For example, 'How many cc is this engine?' would be このエンジンは何 cc ですか (Kono enjin wa nan shī shī desu ka).
You'll primarily encounter 'cc' in specific, often technical or professional, environments in Japan. While not as ubiquitous as in some Western contexts, it holds its ground in particular domains.
- Automotive Repair Shops and Dealerships
- This is perhaps the most common place to hear 'cc' in everyday Japanese. Mechanics and car salespeople will frequently discuss engine displacement using this unit. For example, you might hear conversations like: 「この車のエンジンは1500 ccだよ。」 (Kono kuruma no enjin wa issen go hyaku shī shī da yo. - This car's engine is 1500 cc.) or 「もっと排気量の大きい車をお探しですか? 例えば2000 ccとか。」 (Motto haikiryō no ōkii kuruma o osagashi desu ka? Tatoeba nisen shī shī toka. - Are you looking for a car with a larger displacement? For example, 2000 cc or so.)
- Medical Settings (Hospitals, Clinics, Pharmacies)
- Doctors, nurses, and pharmacists often use 'cc' when prescribing or administering liquid medications. You might hear instructions like: 「このシロップは一日3回、5 ccずつ飲んでください。」 (Kono shiroppu wa ichinichi san kai, go shī shī zutsu nonde kudasai. - Please take 3 cc of this syrup, three times a day.) While milliliters (mL) are also used, 'cc' remains prevalent in many medical contexts.
- Scientific and Technical Laboratories
- In chemistry, physics, or engineering labs, precise measurements are key. While milliliters are common, you might hear 'cc' in contexts involving specific equipment or older measurement standards. For instance, a researcher might refer to a reaction vessel's capacity as 500 cc.
- Manufacturers' Specifications and Manuals
- Product manuals, especially for appliances, vehicles, or medical devices, will often list specifications using 'cc' for volume or displacement. Reading these documents will expose you to the term.
- Specialized Equipment
- Items like syringes, graduated cylinders, fuel injectors, or small pumps might be described or labeled with their capacity in 'cc'.
このバイクのエンジンは、以前のモデルより100cc大きくなりました。
When learning to use 'cc', learners sometimes make a few common errors, often stemming from its English origin or its specific usage contexts.
- Confusing with Japanese Counter Words
- Mistake: Thinking 'cc' needs a Japanese counter word like 個 (ko) or 本 (hon).
Explanation: 'cc' is a unit of measurement, not a countable object in the traditional Japanese sense. You don't say 'san-ko cc' (three cc). It's simply the number followed by 'cc'. For example, 5 cc is just 5 cc, not 5個 cc. - Using it in Everyday Casual Conversation
- Mistake: Using 'cc' to measure common liquids like water or juice in casual settings.
Explanation: In daily life, Japanese speakers typically use 'miririttoru' (ミリリットル) or 'mL' for liquid measurements. Saying 'I drank 200 cc of water' (水を200 cc飲みました - Mizu o nihyaku shī shī nomimashita) sounds unnatural. It should be 水を200ミリリットル飲みました (Mizu o nihyaku miririttoru nomimashita) or 水を200mL飲みました (Mizu o nihyaku enu emu nomimashita). - Pronunciation Issues
- Mistake: Pronouncing 'cc' as individual Japanese characters or in an unidiomatic way.
Explanation: 'cc' is pronounced as 'shī shī' (シーシー). It's a direct phonetic borrowing. Pronouncing it as 'shi shi' or trying to break it down into separate syllables without the lengthened vowel sound can sound odd to native speakers. - Confusing it with 'cc' in Email
- Mistake: Mistaking the measurement unit 'cc' for the email abbreviation 'cc' (carbon copy).
Explanation: While both are 'cc', the context is entirely different. In emails, 'cc' means carbon copy. In measurements, it means cubic centimeter. Japanese speakers would use different terms or contexts to differentiate. For email, they might use 添付 (tenpu) or 転送 (tensō) in discussions, or simply refer to the function within an email client. - Overuse in Technical Contexts
- Mistake: Assuming 'cc' is always the preferred term even when 'mL' is more modern or standard.
Explanation: While 'cc' is common, especially in older contexts or specific industries, 'mL' (ミリリットル) is increasingly preferred in many scientific and medical fields for standardization. Using 'mL' is often seen as more contemporary and precise in official documentation.
While 'cc' is a specific unit, there are other ways to express volume or capacity in Japanese, depending on the context and desired level of formality or precision.
- ミリリットル (miririttoru) / mL
- Comparison: This is the most direct and often preferred alternative to 'cc', especially in modern scientific, medical, and culinary contexts. 1 cc is precisely equal to 1 mL.
Usage: Widely used for liquid measurements in recipes, medical instructions, and laboratory settings. It's considered more standard internationally.
Example: 料理に100ミリリットル (100 mL) の牛乳を加える。(Ryōri ni hyaku miririttoru (hyaku enu emu) no gyūnyū o kuwaeru. - Add 100 milliliters (100 mL) of milk to the dish.) - リットル (rittoru) / L
- Comparison: A larger unit of volume, equivalent to 1000 mL or 1000 cc. Used for significantly larger quantities.
Usage: Common for beverages (like bottles of water or soda), fuel, or larger containers.
Example: このペットボトルは2リットル入りです。(Kono pettobotoru wa ni rittoru-iri desu. - This plastic bottle contains 2 liters.) - cc エンジン (shī shī enjin)
- Comparison: This is not a direct replacement but a specific phrase used in the automotive context. It explicitly refers to an engine whose displacement is measured in cc.
Usage: Used when talking about car engines, motorcycles, etc.
Example: 彼は新しい1000 cc エンジンのバイクを買いました。(Kare wa atarashii issen shī shī enjin no baiku o kaimashita. - He bought a new 1000 cc engine motorcycle.) - 排気量 (haikiryō)
- Comparison: This is a Japanese term meaning 'engine displacement' or 'exhaust volume'. It's the technical term often used in conjunction with 'cc' in the automotive industry.
Usage: Used formally to refer to the total volume of cylinders in an engine.
Example: この車の排気量は2500 cc です。(Kono kuruma no haikiryō wa nisen go hyaku shī shī desu. - This car's engine displacement is 2500 cc.) - 容量 (yōryō)
- Comparison: A general term for 'capacity' or 'volume'. It can refer to the volume of a container or the amount a device can hold.
Usage: Used for containers like bottles, tanks, cups, or the capacity of equipment.
Example: このタンクの容量は500 cc です。(Kono tanku no yōryō wa go hyaku shī shī desu. - This tank's capacity is 500 cc.)
このバイクのエンジンは125ccです。
薬の量は5ccにしてください。
この小型ポンプは1分間に10ccの液体を供給します。
実験で使うビーカーは250ccの容量があります。
この車のエンジンは2000ccです。
医師は患者に15ccの点滴を指示しました。
この注射器は最大30ccまで測れます。
新しいスポーツカーは3500ccのエンジンを搭載しています。
この冷却システムは、1000ccのクーラントを使用します。
医療機器の仕様書には、容量が5ccと記載されていました。
How Formal Is It?
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Fun Fact
While 'cc' is widely understood in Japan, especially in technical fields, the international standard unit for this volume is the milliliter (mL). In many modern scientific and medical contexts, 'mL' is preferred for consistency and clarity. However, 'cc' persists due to its long-standing use in specific industries like automotive and medicine.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing it as 'shi shi' instead of 'shī shī'.
- Pronouncing it as individual Japanese characters 'shi' (し) and 'shi' (し) without the lengthened vowel sound.
- Confusing it with the English abbreviation 'cc' for 'carbon copy' in emails.
Difficulty Rating
Reading 'cc' is straightforward as it's a direct borrowing. Understanding its context (e.g., engine size vs. medical dosage) is key. The numbers associated with it can vary, so numerical comprehension is also important.
Writing 'cc' is simple, but knowing when to use it versus 'ミリリットル' or 'mL' requires understanding context. Correctly placing it after a number is also important.
Pronouncing 'cc' as 'shī shī' is crucial. Knowing the contexts where it's appropriate to use it in speech is also important.
Recognizing the pronunciation 'shī shī' and understanding its meaning based on the surrounding conversation (e.g., discussion about cars or medicine) is necessary.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Using numbers with units of measurement.
100 cc (ひゃくシーシー) - one hundred cc. The number directly precedes the unit.
Using the particle 'no' (の) to connect a unit to a noun.
250 cc のエンジン (nihyaku gojū shī shī no enjin) - an engine of 250 cc. This is common but often shortened to just '250 cc エンジン'.
Asking questions with 'nan' (何).
このバイクは何 cc ですか? (Kono baiku wa nan shī shī desu ka? - What cc is this motorcycle?)
Using particles like 'o' (を) with verbs of action.
5 cc を注入する (go shī shī o chūnyū suru - to inject 5 cc).
Using 'made' (まで) to indicate a limit.
30 cc まで測れる (sanjū shī shī made hakareru - can measure up to 30 cc).
Examples by Level
これは10 cc の水です。
This is 10 cc of water.
'cc' is used as a unit of measurement following a number.
エンジンは 50 cc です。
The engine is 50 cc.
'cc' refers to engine displacement in this context.
薬は 2 cc 飲んでください。
Please drink 2 cc of medicine.
'cc' is used for medical dosage.
この注射器は 5 cc まで入ります。
This syringe holds up to 5 cc.
The particle 'made' (まで) indicates 'up to'.
タンクは 100 cc です。
The tank is 100 cc.
'cc' indicates the volume of the tank.
これは 20 cc のオイルです。
This is 20 cc of oil.
'cc' is used for measuring liquids.
ボートのエンジンは 500 cc です。
The boat's engine is 500 cc.
'cc' is common for engine sizes.
シロップは 3 cc ずつ与えます。
Give syrup at 3 cc each time.
'cc' is used for medical administration.
このスクーターのエンジンは 110 cc です。
This scooter's engine is 110 cc.
'cc' is a standard unit for engine displacement.
獣医は猫に 4 cc の薬を処方しました。
The veterinarian prescribed 4 cc of medicine for the cat.
'cc' is used for animal medication dosages.
このビーカーの最大容量は 500 cc です。
The maximum capacity of this beaker is 500 cc.
'cc' denotes capacity, often in lab settings.
燃料タンクは 15 cc の燃料が入ります。
The fuel tank holds 15 cc of fuel.
'cc' can refer to fuel capacity for small engines.
このインクカートリッジは 12 cc です。
This ink cartridge is 12 cc.
'cc' can be used for ink or toner volume.
実験には 25 cc の溶液が必要です。
25 cc of solution is needed for the experiment.
'cc' is used for precise liquid measurements in labs.
この小型コンプレッサーは 100 cc の空気しか送り出せません。
This small compressor can only output 100 cc of air.
'cc' can refer to air or gas volume output.
車のオイル交換には、500 cc のオイルが必要です。
500 cc of oil is needed for the car's oil change.
'cc' is used for automotive fluid capacities.
この新しいバイクは 400 cc のエンジンを搭載しており、パワフルな走りが期待できます。
This new motorcycle is equipped with a 400 cc engine, and a powerful ride can be expected.
'cc' is used in conjunction with engine specifications to describe performance.
医師は、症状を和らげるために、患者に 10 cc のシロップを処方しました。
The doctor prescribed 10 cc of syrup to alleviate the patient's symptoms.
'cc' is a standard unit for liquid medication dosage.
この実験装置は、最大 1 リットル、つまり 1000 cc の液体を処理できます。
This experimental apparatus can handle a maximum of 1 liter, or 1000 cc, of liquid.
Shows the equivalence between 'liter' and 'cc'.
車の排気量 2000 cc は、一般的なファミリーカーとしては十分な大きさです。
An engine displacement of 2000 cc is a sufficiently large size for a typical family car.
'cc' is used to describe engine displacement, indicating power and fuel consumption.
このアロマディフューザーは 150 cc の水タンクを備えています。
This aroma diffuser is equipped with a 150 cc water tank.
'cc' can be used for capacities of home appliances.
医療現場では、正確な投与量のために cc がミリリットルと同等に扱われることが多いです。
In medical settings, cc is often treated as equivalent to milliliters for accurate dosage.
Highlights the interchangeability of 'cc' and 'mL' in medicine.
この小型ドローンは、1回の充電で 30 cc の燃料を消費します。
This small drone consumes 30 cc of fuel per charge.
'cc' can describe fuel consumption for small engines.
エンジンの設計者は、燃費とパワーのバランスを取るために、排気量を 1800 cc に設定しました。
The engine designer set the displacement to 1800 cc to balance fuel efficiency and power.
'cc' is a key parameter in engine design.
高性能スポーツカーの多くは、3000 cc を超える排気量を持つエンジンを搭載しています。
Many high-performance sports cars are equipped with engines exceeding 3000 cc in displacement.
'cc' is a common indicator of engine power and performance in high-end vehicles.
この新しいインスリンポンプは、1回の注入で最大 2 cc の薬液を正確に供給するように設計されています。
This new insulin pump is designed to accurately deliver a maximum of 2 cc of medication per injection.
'cc' is used for precise delivery volumes in advanced medical devices.
工業用ロボットアームの作動油タンクの容量は、通常、数百 cc から数千 cc の範囲で指定されます。
The hydraulic fluid tank capacity for industrial robot arms is typically specified in the range of several hundred cc to several thousand cc.
'cc' is used for larger industrial fluid capacities.
研究者は、特定の化学反応を促進するために、厳密に 50 cc の溶媒を添加しました。
The researcher added precisely 50 cc of solvent to catalyze a specific chemical reaction.
'cc' is used for precise measurements in scientific research.
このヴィンテージバイクのオリジナルエンジンは、オリジナルの性能を維持するために 750 cc にチューンアップされています。
The original engine of this vintage motorcycle has been tuned up to 750 cc to maintain its original performance.
'cc' is used in the context of engine tuning and restoration.
病理検査で提出された組織サンプルは、固定液 10 cc に浸されました。
The tissue sample submitted for pathological examination was immersed in 10 cc of fixative.
'cc' is used in laboratory procedures for tissue preservation.
航空機の燃料噴射システムは、ミリ秒あたり数 cc の燃料を精密に制御します。
Aircraft fuel injection systems precisely control a few cc of fuel per millisecond.
'cc' is used in high-precision fuel delivery systems.
この特殊な肥料は、1平方メートルあたり 5 cc の希釈液を必要とします。
This special fertilizer requires 5 cc of diluted solution per square meter.
'cc' can be used in agricultural or horticultural applications for precise application rates.
最新の自動車技術では、エンジンの燃焼効率を最大化するために、精密な cc 単位での制御が不可欠となっています。
In the latest automotive technology, precise control in cc units is essential to maximize engine combustion efficiency.
'cc' is discussed in the context of advanced engine design and optimization.
薬剤師は、小児用医薬品の投与量を cc で正確に計算し、保護者に対してその使用法を丁寧に説明しました。
The pharmacist accurately calculated the dosage of pediatric medication in cc and carefully explained its usage to the guardian.
'cc' is used in professional pharmaceutical contexts for precise calculations and patient communication.
この高度なクロマトグラフィー装置は、サンプル注入量を cc 単位でミリ秒単位の精度で調整できます。
This advanced chromatography equipment can adjust sample injection volume in cc with millisecond precision.
'cc' is used in conjunction with other precision metrics in scientific instrumentation.
高性能レーシングエンジンの開発においては、わずかな cc の違いがパフォーマンスに顕著な影響を与えることがあります。
In the development of high-performance racing engines, even a slight difference in cc can have a noticeable impact on performance.
'cc' is a critical factor in the nuanced field of racing engine development.
バイオテクノロジー分野では、細胞培養培地の正確な cc 単位での供給が、実験結果の再現性に直結します。
In the field of biotechnology, the precise supply of cell culture media in cc units directly affects the reproducibility of experimental results.
'cc' is crucial for maintaining accuracy and reproducibility in biological research.
医療機器の設計基準では、患者への安全性を確保するため、薬液の cc 単位での正確な定量が求められます。
Medical device design standards require accurate quantification of medication in cc units to ensure patient safety.
'cc' is a regulated unit in medical device safety standards.
この精密機械部品の製造プロセスでは、潤滑油の塗布量を cc 単位で厳密に管理しています。
In the manufacturing process of this precision mechanical part, the amount of lubricant applied is strictly controlled in cc units.
'cc' is used for precise application of materials in manufacturing.
航空宇宙工学における燃料噴射システムの設計では、 cc 単位での流量制御が極めて重要となります。
In the design of fuel injection systems in aerospace engineering, flow control in cc units is extremely important.
'cc' is a fundamental unit for high-stakes fluid dynamics in aerospace.
自動車産業における cc 単位の排気量表記は、単なる技術的指標に留まらず、市場における車両のポジショニングやブランドイメージを形成する上で不可欠な要素となっている。
In the automotive industry, the designation of engine displacement in cc is not merely a technical indicator but has become an indispensable element in shaping a vehicle's market positioning and brand image.
'cc' is analyzed for its role in marketing and brand perception within the automotive sector.
現代医療における精密投薬管理の文脈では、 cc とミリリットルとの間の厳密な換算係数は、臨床現場での安全かつ効果的な治療介入の基盤をなしている。
In the context of precise medication management in modern medicine, the exact conversion factor between cc and milliliters forms the basis for safe and effective therapeutic interventions in clinical practice.
'cc' and 'mL' equivalence is discussed from a critical medical safety and efficacy standpoint.
流体力学における微細流路設計においては、 cc 単位での体積流量の精密な制御が、ナノテクノロジーやマイクロ流体デバイスの機能発現に決定的な影響を与える。
In the design of microfluidic channels in fluid dynamics, precise control of volumetric flow rate in cc units has a decisive impact on the functional manifestation of nanotechnology and microfluidic devices.
'cc' is examined in the advanced scientific domain of microfluidics and nanotechnology.
航空宇宙工学の分野では、ロケットエンジンの推進剤供給システムの cc 単位での動的な流量調整能力が、ミッション遂行の成否を左右する最重要技術の一つである。
In the field of aerospace engineering, the dynamic flow adjustment capability of rocket engine propellant supply systems in cc units is one of the most critical technologies determining the success or failure of mission execution.
'cc' is analyzed within the high-stakes engineering challenges of aerospace propulsion.
バイオリアクターのスケールアッププロセスにおける cc 単位の培養液供給量の最適化は、工業的バイオテクノロジー製品の生産効率とコスト削減に直接的に寄与する。
The optimization of culture medium supply volume in cc units during the scale-up process of bioreactors directly contributes to the production efficiency and cost reduction of industrial biotechnology products.
'cc' is discussed in relation to industrial-scale biotechnology production and optimization.
医薬品開発における薬物動態学的評価において、 cc 単位での投与量設定は、有効性と安全性のトレードオフを考慮した厳密なパラメータとなる。
In pharmacokinetic evaluation during drug development, dosage setting in cc units becomes a rigorous parameter considering the trade-off between efficacy and safety.
'cc' is analyzed within the complex framework of pharmaceutical pharmacokinetic studies.
精密工学分野では、ナノメートルスケールの加工精度を達成するために、微量潤滑剤の cc 単位での供給制御が極めて重要視される。
In the field of precision engineering, the control of micro-lubricant supply in cc units is considered extremely important to achieve nanometer-scale processing accuracy.
'cc' is discussed in the context of ultra-precise material application in advanced manufacturing.
現代のエネルギー貯蔵システム、特に高性能バッテリーの設計においては、内部電解液の cc 単位での最適化がエネルギー密度と寿命に大きく影響する。
In the design of modern energy storage systems, particularly high-performance batteries, the optimization of internal electrolyte volume in cc units significantly impacts energy density and lifespan.
'cc' is considered in the context of advanced materials science and energy storage technology.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— It is ~ cc.
このバイクは 250 cc です。(Kono baiku wa nihyaku gojū shī shī desu. - This motorcycle is 250 cc.)
— An engine of ~ cc.
彼は 1000 cc のエンジンを積んだ車を買った。(Kare wa issen shī shī no enjin o tsunda kuruma o katta. - He bought a car with a 1000 cc engine.)
— Please administer ~ cc.
患者に 5 cc 投与してください。(Kanja ni go shī shī tōyo shite kudasai. - Please administer 5 cc to the patient.)
— Up to ~ cc.
この注射器は 20 cc まで測れます。(Kono chūshaki wa nijū shī shī made hakararemasu. - This syringe can measure up to 20 cc.)
— How many cc is it?
このエンジンの排気量は、何 cc ですか?(Kono enjin no haikiryō wa, nan shī shī desu ka? - What is the displacement of this engine in cc?)
— A capacity of ~ cc.
このビーカーは 500 cc の容量があります。(Kono bīkā wa go hyaku shī shī no yōryō ga arimasu. - This beaker has a capacity of 500 cc.)
— ~ cc of liquid.
測定には 10 cc の液体が必要です。(Sokutei ni wa jū shī shī no ekitai ga hitsuyō desu. - 10 cc of liquid is needed for the measurement.)
— ~ cc at a time.
一度に 2 cc ずつ注入します。(Ichido ni ni shī shī zutsu chūnyū shimasu. - Inject 2 cc at a time.)
— ~ cc of fuel.
この小型エンジンは 100 cc の燃料を使います。(Kono kogata enjin wa hyaku shī shī no nenryō o tsukaimasu. - This small engine uses 100 cc of fuel.)
— ~ cc of coolant.
ラジエーターには 5000 cc のクーラントが入っています。(Rajieitā ni wa go sen shī shī no kūranto ga haitte imasu. - The radiator contains 5000 cc of coolant.)
Often Confused With
This refers to 'carbon copy' in emails. The pronunciation is the same ('shī shī'), but the context is entirely different. Japanese speakers would differentiate based on the surrounding conversation about emails vs. measurements.
This is the direct equivalent and often preferred alternative. While 1 cc = 1 mL, 'cc' is more common in older or specific technical fields, whereas 'mL' is more modern and international.
A much larger unit (1000 cc). Confusion might arise if the number is misread, leading to an incorrect scale of volume.
Easily Confused
Both measure volume and are often interchangeable.
'cc' is an abbreviation for cubic centimeter, while 'ミリリットル' (milliliter) is the standard Japanese term for mL. Historically, 'cc' was more prevalent in certain fields like automotive and medicine in Japan, but 'mL' is now the international standard and increasingly used for clarity and consistency.
This medicine is 5 cc. -> この薬は5 cc です。(Kono kusuri wa go shī shī desu.) vs. This medicine is 5 mL. -> この薬は5ミリリットルです。(Kono kusuri wa go miririttoru desu.)
Both are units of volume.
'cc' measures a very small volume (1/1000th of a liter), while 'リットル' (liter) measures a much larger volume. 1000 cc equals 1 liter. It's important to pay attention to the number preceding the unit to understand the scale.
A small fuel tank might be 50 cc, whereas a large water bottle is 2 liters (2000 cc).
Identical abbreviation and pronunciation.
The context is the sole differentiator. If the conversation is about sending emails or communication via computer, 'cc' refers to 'carbon copy'. If the discussion is about engines, medicine, or laboratory equipment, 'cc' refers to cubic centimeters. Japanese speakers rely heavily on context to distinguish.
Please cc me on the email. -> メールを cc してください。(Mēru o shī shī shite kudasai.) vs. The engine is 1500 cc. -> エンジンは1500 cc です。(Enjin wa issen go hyaku shī shī desu.)
It's the full, formal Japanese term for cubic centimeter.
'cc' is the common abbreviation. '立方センチメートル' (rippō senchimētoru) is the complete, formal Japanese phrase. While they mean the same thing, 'cc' is far more frequently used in spoken language and informal writing, especially in technical fields. You'd see '立方センチメートル' mainly in very formal scientific documents or textbooks.
The capacity is 500 cc. -> 容量は 500 cc です。(Yōryō wa go hyaku shī shī desu.) vs. The capacity is 500 cubic centimeters. -> 容量は 500 立方センチメートルです。(Yōryō wa go hyaku rippō senchimētoru desu.)
Contains 'cc' and refers to volume.
'cc/min' represents a flow rate (volume per unit of time), specifically cubic centimeters per minute. 'cc' by itself refers only to a static volume. The presence of '/min' (per minute) signifies a rate of change, not just a fixed quantity.
The pump delivers 100 cc. -> ポンプは 100 cc を供給します。(Ponpu wa hyaku shī shī o kyōkyū shimasu.) vs. The pump delivers 100 cc per minute. -> ポンプは毎分 100 cc を供給します。(Ponpu wa maifun hyaku shī shī o kyōkyū shimasu.)
Sentence Patterns
[Number] cc です。
これは 10 cc です。
[Noun] は [Number] cc です。
エンジンは 50 cc です。
[Number] cc の [Noun]
2 cc の薬
[Number] cc まで
5 cc まで入る
[Noun] は [Number] cc の [Noun] を搭載しています。
バイクは 400 cc のエンジンを搭載しています。
[Number] cc ずつ
10 cc ずつ与える
[Noun] の [Noun] は [Number] cc を超える。
エンジンの排気量は 3000 cc を超える。
[Noun] は [Number] cc 単位で制御される。
流量は cc 単位で制御される。
Word Family
Nouns
Related
How to Use It
High in technical and medical contexts, low in casual conversation.
-
Using 'cc' for everyday liquids like water or juice.
→
Use 'ミリリットル' (miririttoru) or 'mL'.
In casual Japanese conversation, 'cc' sounds overly technical for common liquids. It's better to use 'ミリリットル' or 'mL' for a more natural feel.
-
Pronouncing 'cc' as 'shi shi' (しし) instead of 'shī shī' (シーシー).
→
Pronounce it as 'shī shī'.
The pronunciation is a direct phonetic borrowing from English 'see-see', with a lengthened vowel sound. Incorrect pronunciation can make it hard for native speakers to understand.
-
Confusing 'cc' (volume) with 'cc' (carbon copy in email).
→
Understand the context.
Both are pronounced 'shī shī', but the meaning is completely different. Context is key: discussion about cars or medicine implies volume, while discussion about emails implies carbon copy.
-
Assuming 'cc' is always the preferred term over 'mL'.
→
Use 'mL' or 'ミリリットル' in modern scientific/medical contexts.
While 'cc' is common, 'mL' is the international standard and is increasingly used in formal and modern Japanese contexts for clarity and consistency.
-
Using Japanese counter words with 'cc'.
→
Do not use counter words like '個' (ko) with 'cc'.
'cc' is a unit of measurement, not a countable object in the traditional Japanese sense. You simply state the number followed by 'cc', e.g., '5 cc', not '5個 cc'.
Tips
Pronounce it Right
The Japanese pronunciation for 'cc' is 'shī shī' (シーシー). Make sure to emphasize both syllables with a lengthened vowel sound, similar to the English pronunciation.
CC Equals ML
Always keep in mind that 1 cc is precisely equal to 1 milliliter (mL). This equivalence is crucial for understanding technical specifications and medical instructions.
Engine Talk
In the automotive world, 'cc' refers to engine displacement. A higher 'cc' number generally means a larger and potentially more powerful engine. This is a very common context where you'll encounter 'cc'.
Medical Precision
In medicine, 'cc' is used for liquid dosages. Doctors and pharmacists rely on this precise measurement for patient safety. Be aware that 'mL' is often used interchangeably or preferred in modern medical settings.
Number First
When writing 'cc', always place the number before the unit. For example, it's '100 cc', not 'cc 100'. This applies to Japanese writing as well.
Alternatives Exist
While 'cc' is understood, 'ミリリットル' (miririttoru) and 'mL' are the standard terms for milliliters in many contexts. Using them can sometimes sound more natural or be preferred in formal documentation.
Avoid Casual Misuse
Avoid using 'cc' when talking about drinking water or adding sugar to coffee. Stick to 'ミリリットル' or 'mL' for these everyday situations to avoid sounding overly technical or unnatural.
Learn the Contexts
Focus on learning 'cc' in its primary contexts: engines and medical dosages. Understanding these specific areas will help you use and recognize the term correctly.
English Origin
Remember that 'cc' is a loanword from English. This helps explain why it's often used in technical fields where English influence is strong.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a tiny cube, one centimeter on each side. That's 1 cc. Think of it as a very small, precise measure, like a drop from a special medical dropper or the size of a small car's engine component.
Visual Association
Picture a standard 1 mL syringe. The amount it holds is exactly 1 cc. Or, visualize a very small die (cube) that is 1 cm x 1 cm x 1 cm. This volume is 1 cc.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe the engine size of your favorite car or motorcycle in cc, and imagine the volume of a common medicine you might take. Write down these numbers followed by 'cc'.
Word Origin
The term 'cc' is a direct transliteration and borrowing from the English abbreviation 'cc' for 'cubic centimeter'. This abbreviation itself originates from the Latin term 'cubus' (cube) combined with the metric unit 'centimeter'.
Original meaning: Cubic centimeter.
English borrowing into Japanese.Cultural Context
The term 'cc' itself is neutral. However, its usage is context-dependent. Using it in casual conversation about everyday liquids might sound unnatural or overly technical. It's best reserved for its intended technical and medical applications.
The term 'cc' itself is English. Its adoption into Japanese highlights the influence of English on technical vocabulary worldwide. While English speakers use 'cc' routinely, Japanese speakers use it in specific contexts where English technical terms are common.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Automotive Industry
- エンジンは〜ccです。
- 排気量は〜ccです。
- 〜ccのバイク
Medical Field
- 〜cc 投与してください。
- 〜cc の薬
- 〜cc ずつ
Laboratory Settings
- 〜cc の容量
- 〜cc を測定する
- 〜cc の溶液
Engineering and Manufacturing
- 〜cc のポンプ
- 〜cc のクーラント
- 〜cc/min の流量
Product Specifications
- タンクは〜ccです。
- 容量は〜cc
- 〜cc のインク
Conversation Starters
"What kind of motorcycle do you like? Does it have a big engine, like over 600 cc?"
"Have you ever had to measure liquid medicine in cc? What was the dosage?"
"If you were buying a car, would you prefer a smaller engine, say under 1500 cc, or a larger one?"
"Do you think the term 'cc' is more common in Japan than 'mL' for medical purposes?"
"Imagine you're in a mechanic's shop. What kind of 'cc' numbers might you hear?"
Journal Prompts
Write about a time you encountered the term 'cc' in Japanese. What was the context, and how did you understand it?
Compare and contrast the usage of 'cc' and 'ミリリットル' (mL) in Japanese. When would you use one over the other?
Describe a hypothetical situation where you need to use 'cc' in Japanese, such as explaining a car's engine size or a medication's dosage.
Reflect on how loanwords like 'cc' are integrated into Japanese. What does this tell you about language and technology?
Imagine you are writing a product manual for a small device. How would you use 'cc' to describe its capacity?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsGenerally, no. While 'cc' is understood, it's primarily used in technical contexts like automotive (engine displacement) and medical (liquid dosages). For everyday liquid measurements (like water, juice, cooking ingredients), Japanese speakers typically use 'ミリリットル' (miririttoru) or its abbreviation 'mL'.
There is no difference in measurement: 1 cc is exactly equal to 1 mL. However, 'cc' is an abbreviation derived from English, while 'ミリリットル' is the Japanese term for milliliter. In modern scientific and medical fields, 'mL' is often preferred for international standardization, but 'cc' remains common in specific industries like automotive and older medical contexts.
It is pronounced 'shī shī' (シーシー). This is a direct phonetic borrowing from the English pronunciation of 'cc'.
It's not common or natural. For cooking, you would typically use 'ミリリットル' (miririttoru) or 'mL'. For example, '200 mL of milk' (牛乳を200ミリリットル - gyūnyū o nihyaku miririttoru) is the standard way to say it.
'cc' itself is neutral, but its usage context determines formality. It's standard in technical manuals and medical instructions. In casual conversation, using it for everyday liquids would be informal and potentially sound awkward. For formal writing, '立方センチメートル' might be used, but 'cc' is more prevalent.
When referring to a car engine, 'cc' stands for cubic centimeters and indicates the engine's displacement. This is the total volume swept by all the pistons in the engine. A larger 'cc' value generally implies a more powerful engine.
'cc' is a unit of volume. It measures how much space something occupies. It is equivalent to one milliliter (mL).
Yes, 'cc' can be used to measure the volume of gases or air, especially in technical specifications for devices like compressors or pumps that handle air. For example, a compressor might be rated at '100 cc/min' (100 cubic centimeters per minute).
It can be, particularly in older research or specific equipment that uses 'cc' calibration. However, 'ミリリットル' (mL) is generally the preferred and more standardized unit in contemporary scientific research for consistency and international communication.
Think of 'cc' and 'mL' as small, precise measures, often used for medicine or specific engine parts. Think of 'リットル' (liter) for larger quantities like drinks or fuel. Always pay attention to the number associated with the unit to understand the scale.
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Summary
The term 'cc' (シーシー - shī shī) is a direct borrowing from English, meaning cubic centimeter, which is equivalent to one milliliter (mL). It is most frequently encountered in technical contexts such as specifying the engine displacement of vehicles (e.g., a 2000 cc engine) or in medical settings for liquid medication dosages (e.g., 10 cc of syrup). While it's a precise unit, it's generally not used for casual measurements of common liquids like water or beverages in everyday Japanese conversation.
- 'cc' means cubic centimeter, equal to 1 milliliter (mL).
- Used for engine sizes (e.g., 1000 cc) and medical dosages (e.g., 5 cc).
- Pronounced 'shī shī' (シーシー).
- Not typically used for everyday liquid measurements like water or juice.
Context is Key
Remember that 'cc' is a specialized unit. While it's common in automotive and medical fields, it's best to use 'ミリリットル' (miririttoru) or 'mL' for general liquid measurements in daily life to sound more natural.
Pronounce it Right
The Japanese pronunciation for 'cc' is 'shī shī' (シーシー). Make sure to emphasize both syllables with a lengthened vowel sound, similar to the English pronunciation.
CC Equals ML
Always keep in mind that 1 cc is precisely equal to 1 milliliter (mL). This equivalence is crucial for understanding technical specifications and medical instructions.
Engine Talk
In the automotive world, 'cc' refers to engine displacement. A higher 'cc' number generally means a larger and potentially more powerful engine. This is a very common context where you'll encounter 'cc'.
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適当に
B1Appropriately, roughly; in a suitable or approximate manner.
揃える
B1To gather, arrange ingredients.
~ごと
B1Whole, entirely, along with ~ (e.g., 皮ごと - with skin on).
茹だる
B1To be overcooked; for food to be boiled too much.
自炊する
B1To cook for oneself.
炊く
A2To cook (rice).
自炊
B1Cooking one's own meals.
調理器具
B1Cooking utensils; kitchen tools.
〜カップ
B1Cup (unit of volume in cooking).
出汁
A2Broth, stock (e.g., for soup).
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