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A1 noun 10 min read

機能

kinou
Examples 機能 in 30 Seconds
Explanation 機能 in your Level:
At the A1 level, you should learn '機能' (kinō) as a noun that means 'function' or 'feature.' Think of it in the context of simple objects you use every day, like your smartphone or a computer. You might say 'Kono sumaho wa kinō ga ooi' (This smartphone has many functions). It is a useful word for describing things you like about technology. Even though it is a bit formal, it appears in basic advertisements and manuals. Focus on the idea that 'kinō' is what a machine 'does.' Just remember not to confuse it with 'kinō' (yesterday), which is a very common A1 word. In A1, you don't need to use the verb form 'kinō suru' yet; just focus on identifying 'kinō' in lists of features. For example, if you see 'camera kinō' on a box, you know it means 'camera function.' This word helps you expand your vocabulary beyond simple colors and sizes when describing objects. It's the first step toward technical Japanese.
At the A2 level, you can begin using '機能' (kinō) in slightly more complex sentences. You should understand the structure '...no kinō ga aru' (There is a function of...). For example, 'Kono tokei ni wa nenshō-kei no kinō ga arimasu' (This watch has a calorie counter function). You might also encounter 'kinō' in the context of your body, like 'me no kinō' (eye function). At this level, you should be able to distinguish between 'kinō' (function/feature) and 'seinō' (performance/quality) in a basic way. You can also start using the na-adjective form 'kinō-teki' (functional) to describe things that are practical, like 'kinō-teki na kaban' (a functional bag). Learning this word at A2 allows you to participate in basic shopping conversations where you ask about what a product can do. It's a bridge between daily life and the world of technology and health. You should also be aware that 'kinō' is a 'suru' verb, though you might only use it in simple negative forms like 'kinō shimasen' (it doesn't work).
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At the B1 level, you are expected to use '機能' (kinō) in professional and academic contexts. You should be comfortable using 'kinō suru' as a verb to describe how systems or organizations operate. For example, 'Atarashii ruru wa umaku kinō shite imasu' (The new rules are functioning well). You will also learn common compounds like 'tame-kinō' (multi-function) and 'kinō-bi' (functional beauty). At this level, you can discuss the 'function' of abstract concepts, such as the function of a language or a social custom. You should also be able to explain 'kinō fuzen' (dysfunction) when something goes wrong. In business settings, you might use 'kinō' to talk about software requirements or product specifications. B1 learners should notice how 'kinō' is used in news reports, especially regarding infrastructure or government operations. You are moving from just describing gadgets to describing how society and biology work. This word becomes a tool for more precise and logical expression in both speaking and writing.
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At the B2 level, '機能' (kinō) becomes a versatile term for discussing complex systems. you should understand nuances like 'kinō o hatasu' (to fulfill a function) and 'kinō o tsuika suru' (to add a function). You will encounter 'kinō' in specialized fields like medicine (e.g., 'kann-kinō' for liver function) and sociology (e.g., 'shakai-teki kinō' for social function). You should be able to debate the merits of different 'kinō' in products or systems. At this level, you can use 'kinō' to describe the 'utility' of something in a more philosophical sense. For instance, you might analyze the 'kinō' of art in a modern city. You will also see 'kinō' used in legal and political texts to describe the 'functions' of different branches of government. B2 learners should be able to distinguish 'kinō' from more academic synonyms like 'sayō' (action) or 'kōnō' (efficacy) with ease. Your usage should reflect an understanding that 'kinō' is about the inherent purpose and operational capability of a system.
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At the C1 level, you should have a sophisticated grasp of '機能' (kinō) in highly technical or academic literature. You will encounter the term in discussions of 'functionalism' (kinō-shugi) in linguistics, sociology, and psychology. You should be able to use the word to describe the 'functional' aspects of a complex argument or a large-scale system. For example, you might analyze how 'toshi-kinō' (urban functions) are being decentralized in modern Japan. You should also be familiar with metaphorical uses of the word, such as 'kokoro no kinō' (functions of the mind) in cognitive science. At this level, you can use 'kinō' to critique the efficiency of bureaucratic structures or the operational integrity of a technical framework. You should be able to write detailed reports or give presentations that use 'kinō' and its compounds (like 'kinō-teki bunretsu' - functional fragmentation) accurately. Your understanding should include the historical development of the term in Japanese translation of Western scientific concepts. C1 mastery means 'kinō' is a natural part of your high-level analytical vocabulary.
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At the C2 level, '機能' (kinō) is a word you use with the precision of a native professional. You can navigate the most dense technical manuals, medical journals, and philosophical treatises where 'kinō' is a central concept. You understand the subtle differences between 'kinō' and its most obscure synonyms in various contexts. You can discuss the 'functional' evolution of the Japanese language itself or the 'functional' shifts in Japanese corporate culture over decades. C2 learners can use 'kinō' in creative writing to describe the 'functioning' of a character's internal world or the 'dysfunctional' nature of a fictional society with great nuance. You are also aware of how 'kinō' relates to 'performance art' or 'functional design' at an expert level. At this stage, the word is not just a vocabulary item but a conceptual building block that you can manipulate to express complex, multi-layered ideas about how the world and its components operate. You can effortlessly switch between technical, casual, and academic registers when using this term.
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Examples

機能 in 30 Seconds

  • Kinō means 'function' or 'feature' in Japanese.
  • Used for technology, biology, and abstract systems.
  • Can be a noun or a suru-verb (to function).
  • Essential for technical, medical, and professional contexts.
The Japanese word 機能 (きのう - kinō) is a foundational noun that English speakers often translate as 'function,' 'feature,' or 'facility.' At its core, it describes the specific activity, role, or purpose that a system, machine, or biological entity is designed to perform. In a modern technological context, you will hear this word constantly when discussing smartphones, applications, or software updates. For instance, if a new iPhone is released, tech reviewers will focus heavily on its shinkinō (new functions). However, the word's utility extends far beyond gadgets. In biology, it refers to the physiological operations of organs; for example, 'the function of the heart' is expressed as shinzō no kinō. In sociology or urban planning, it refers to how a city or organization operates.
Technical Application
In software development, 'kinō' refers to specific modules or capabilities, such as a 'search function' (kensaku kinō).
Biological Context
Used to describe the health or operational status of internal organs like the liver or kidneys.
Abstract Utility
Can describe the 'function' of a social institution or a specific law within a legal framework.

この電子レンジには、オーブンとしての機能も備わっています。 (This microwave is also equipped with a function as an oven.)

The nuance of 'kinō' is strictly utilitarian. It does not imply the 'beauty' or 'artistry' of a thing, but rather its practical performance. If a machine is broken, you might say it is 'kinō shite inai' (not functioning). In business meetings, identifying the 'core function' (chūshin-teki kinō) of a product is essential for marketing strategy. Compared to 'hataraki' (work/action), 'kinō' sounds more formal and scientific. It is a Sino-Japanese word (kango), which naturally lends it an air of precision. For learners, mastering this word is key to moving beyond basic descriptions of objects into more sophisticated technical and professional Japanese. Whether you are reading a manual, a medical report, or a business proposal, 'kinō' will appear as the primary term for what something actually does.

心臓の機能を強化するための運動が必要です。 (Exercise is necessary to strengthen the function of the heart.)

新しいアプリケーションには、翻訳機能が追加されました。 (A translation function has been added to the new application.)

都市の機能が麻痺してしまった。 (The functions of the city have become paralyzed.)

このボタンの機能は何ですか？ (What is the function of this button?)

Using 機能 (kinō) correctly involves understanding its grammatical versatility as both a noun and a suru-verb. When used as a noun, it often takes the particle 'ga' to describe a state, such as kinō ga ooi (has many functions) or kinō ga sugurete iru (has excellent functions). In technical writing, you will frequently see it paired with 'bi' (beauty) to form the compound 'kinō-bi' (functional beauty), referring to the aesthetic appeal of something that is perfectly designed for its purpose.
Describing Capacity
Use 'kinō o sonaeru' to say something is 'equipped with a function.' This is common in catalogs and advertisements.
Describing Failure
Use 'kinō fuzen' (dysfunction) to describe a system or organ that is not working properly.
Active Operation
Use 'kinō suru' as a verb. For example, 'Kono soshiki wa umaku kinō shite iru' (This organization is functioning well).

最新のカメラには、顔認識機能が搭載されています。 (The latest cameras are equipped with a face recognition function.)

When discussing design, the phrase kinō-teki (functional) is used as a na-adjective. For example, 'kinō-teki na kagu' (functional furniture) implies that the furniture is practical and easy to use. In a more advanced context, like medicine or biology, 'kinō' is often part of a compound like 'kinō shōgai' (functional disorder). For students of Japanese, it is important to notice how 'kinō' interacts with other nouns. It is rarely used alone in a sentence without a modifier or a specific context (like 'this function' or 'that function'). In a business setting, you might hear 'kinō o kakuchō suru' (to expand functions), which is a common goal for software projects. Understanding these collocations helps you sound more natural and professional.

このシステムは、災害時でも機能するように設計されています。 (This system is designed to function even during a disaster.)

彼は肝機能の検査を受ける必要があります。 (He needs to undergo a liver function test.)

その計画は、現実的には機能しないでしょう。 (That plan will probably not function realistically.)

マルチタスク機能を使って効率を上げましょう。 (Let's increase efficiency by using the multi-tasking function.)

The word 機能 (kinō) is omnipresent in Japanese daily life, particularly in environments where technology and health are discussed. If you walk into a Japanese electronics store like Yodobashi Camera or Bic Camera, you will see 'kinō' written all over the price tags and promotional banners. It is the standard word used to list what a washing machine, a rice cooker, or a vacuum cleaner can do. In the digital world, every time you update an app on your phone, the 'What's New' section will likely mention shinkinō no tsuika (addition of new functions).
News and Media
News reports on infrastructure often use 'kinō' to discuss how public services like trains or water systems are operating after a natural disaster.
Workplace/Office
In meetings, colleagues might discuss if a certain department is 'kinō shite iru' (functioning) as intended.
Healthcare
Doctors use it to explain test results, such as 'i-kinō' (stomach function) or 'shinzō-kinō' (heart function).

このアプリの検索機能はとても使いやすいです。 (This app's search function is very easy to use.)

Beyond the technical, 'kinō' appears in academic discourse. In sociology, 'kinō-shugi' refers to functionalism, the theory that all aspects of a society serve a purpose and are necessary for the survival of that society. In urban planning, 'toshi-kinō' refers to the various services a city provides, like transportation, housing, and commerce. For a Japanese learner, hearing 'kinō' should trigger a mental association with 'purposeful action' or 'systemic operation.' It is a word that moves you away from simple nouns and towards understanding how things work together. Even in casual conversation, if someone is complaining about their old phone, they might say 'mō kinō ga tsuite ikenai' (the functions can't keep up anymore), indicating that the device is outdated.

政府の機能が一時的に停止しました。 (The government's functions have temporarily stopped.)

脳の機能について詳しく学びたいです。 (I want to learn in detail about the functions of the brain.)

この時計には防水機能がありますか？ (Does this watch have a waterproof function?)

新しいOSは、古いPCでは十分に機能しません。 (The new OS does not function sufficiently on old PCs.)

One of the most frequent mistakes for beginners is confusing the homophones 機能 (kinō - function) and 昨日 (kinō - yesterday). While they sound identical to the untrained ear, their pitch accents and kanji are entirely different. 'Yesterday' typically has a low-high-low or low-high-high pattern depending on the dialect, whereas 'function' is usually flat or high-low. Context is usually the best guide, but learners should be careful when typing, as an incorrect kanji selection will change the meaning from 'The function of the phone' to 'The yesterday of the phone.'
Confusion with 'Work'
Do not use 'kinō' for a person's job or work. Use 'shigoto' or 'shokumu' instead. 'Kinō' is for systems and organs.
Overusing 'Kinō' for People
Saying 'Kare wa kinō shite iru' to mean 'He is working' sounds like you are calling him a robot or a tool.
Misusing 'Feature'
While 'kinō' means feature in a technical sense, it doesn't mean 'feature' in terms of a physical appearance (like facial features). For that, use 'ganbō' or 'tokuchō'.

❌ 昨日、このアプリの昨日を試しました。 (Correct: 昨日、このアプリの機能を試しました。 - Yesterday, I tried this app's function.)

Another mistake is using 'kinō' when 'seinō' (performance) is more appropriate. 'Kinō' refers to what a machine can do (e.g., it can record video), while 'seinō' refers to how well it does it (e.g., it records in 4K resolution). If you say a computer's 'kinō' is high, it implies it has many features. If you say its 'seinō' is high, it implies it is fast and powerful. Mixing these up won't make you incomprehensible, but using them correctly shows a higher level of fluency. Lastly, be careful with the particle usage for 'kinō suru'. It usually takes the particle 'ni' or 'to shite' when describing the role it functions as, e.g., 'kaigi-shitsu to shite kinō suru' (functions as a meeting room).

❌ このカメラの性能は「録画」です。 (Correct: このカメラの機能は「録画」です。 - This camera's function is 'recording'.)

❌ 彼の機能は先生です。 (Correct: 彼の職業は先生です。 - His occupation is a teacher.)

❌ その機械は昨日しません。 (Correct: その機械は機能しません。 - That machine does not function.)

❌ 肝機能が昨日のようです。 (Correct: 肝機能が低下しています。 - Liver function is declining.)

Understanding synonyms and related terms for 機能 (kinō) will help you express nuance more effectively. While 'kinō' is the broad, standard term for 'function,' other words might be better depending on whether you are talking about a person's role, a machine's power, or a physical action.
性能 (Seinō)
Refers to performance or capability level. Use this when talking about how fast, strong, or efficient a machine is.
役割 (Yakuwari)
Refers to a 'role' or 'part' played by a person or an object in a specific situation. It is more social than technical.
働き (Hataraki)
A softer, more native Japanese word for 'work' or 'action.' Often used for biological or chemical processes in a less formal way.

このPCは性能が良いですが、必要な機能が足りません。 (This PC has good performance, but lacks the necessary functions.)

Other alternatives include kōnō (efficacy), usually used for medicine or hot springs, and sayō (action/operation), used in science to describe how one thing affects another. For example, 'kusuri no sayō' (the action of the medicine). If you are talking about the 'features' of a person's face, you would use tokuchō (characteristics). In software, fīchā (feature) is sometimes used as a loanword, but 'kinō' remains the dominant term. By choosing the right word, you can specify whether you are impressed by a machine's list of abilities (kinō), its sheer power (seinō), or the helpful role it plays in your life (yakuwari). This distinction is vital for clear communication in Japanese.

彼はチームの中で重要な役割を果たしている。 (He plays an important role within the team.)

胃の働きを助ける薬を飲みました。 (I took medicine that helps the stomach's action.)

この温泉の効能は疲労回復です。 (The efficacy of this hot spring is recovery from fatigue.)

化学作用によって色が変化します。 (The color changes due to chemical action.)

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Examples by Level

1

このスマホは機能が多いです。

This smartphone has many functions.

Simple noun + ga + adjective.

2

カメラの機能を使いましょう。

Let's use the camera function.

Noun + no + noun.

3

この時計には、どんな機能がありますか？

What kind of functions does this watch have?

Question form with 'donna'.

4

新しい機能がとても便利です。

The new function is very convenient.

Adjective 'benri' modifying the noun.

5

このボタンの機能は何ですか？

What is the function of this button?

Direct question 'wa nan desu ka'.

6

テレビの録画機能を使います。

I use the TV's recording function.

Specific function name + kinō.

7

機能が少ないパソコンです。

It is a computer with few functions.

Adjective 'sukunai' modifying the noun.

8

辞書の機能を試します。

I will try the dictionary function.

Verb 'tamesu' (to try).

1

このカバンは機能的で使いやすいです。

This bag is functional and easy to use.

Na-adjective 'kinō-teki'.

2

電子レンジのオーブン機能を使いました。

I used the microwave's oven function.

Past tense verb 'tsukaimashita'.

3

このアプリには翻訳機能がついています。

This app is equipped with a translation function.

Verb 'tsuite iru' (is attached/equipped).

4

機能が壊れているので、修理が必要です。

The function is broken, so repair is necessary.

Causal particle 'node'.

5

最新の車には自動ブレーキ機能があります。

Latest cars have an automatic braking function.

Compound noun 'jidō burēki kinō'.

6

このソフトは、古いPCでは機能しません。

This software doesn't function on old PCs.

Negative verb 'kinō shimasen'.

7

健康のために、胃の機能を高めましょう。

For health, let's improve stomach function.

Volitional form 'takamemashō'.

8

どの機能が一番重要だと思いますか？

Which function do you think is the most important?

Embedded question with 'to omoimasu ka'.

1

このシステムは正常に機能しています。

This system is functioning normally.

Adverb 'seijō ni' + kinō shite iru.

2

新しいリーダーのもとで、組織が機能し始めた。

Under the new leader, the organization began to function.

Auxiliary verb '...hajimeru' (to start doing).

3

この建物は、避難所としても機能します。

This building also functions as a shelter.

Particle 'to shite' (as).

4

機能性を重視して、この靴を選びました。

I chose these shoes, prioritizing functionality.

Noun 'kinō-sei' (functionality).

5

心臓の機能が低下している可能性があります。

There is a possibility that heart function is declining.

Noun 'kanōsei' (possibility).

6

その計画は、実際には機能しないだろう。

That plan probably won't function in reality.

Conjecture 'darō'.

7

不要な機能を削除して、動作を軽くした。

I deleted unnecessary functions to make the operation lighter.

Te-form for sequence of actions.

8

都市機能が麻痺すると、生活が困難になる。

When city functions are paralyzed, life becomes difficult.

Conditional 'to' (when/if).

1

彼はそのプロジェクトで調整役としての機能を果たした。

He fulfilled the function of a coordinator in that project.

Idiom 'kinō o hatasu' (to fulfill a function).

2

この薬は肝機能を改善する効果があります。

This medicine has the effect of improving liver function.

Noun 'kōka' (effect).

3

多機能なガジェットは便利だが、使いこなすのが難しい。

Multi-functional gadgets are convenient, but difficult to master.

Compound 'ta-kinō' (multi-function).

4

社会的な機能が失われると、混乱が生じる。

When social functions are lost, chaos arises.

Passive/Intransitive 'shōjiru' (to arise).

5

このデザインは、機能美を追求した結果です。

This design is the result of pursuing functional beauty.

Compound 'kinō-bi' (functional beauty).

6

脳の特定の部位が、記憶機能を司っている。

A specific part of the brain governs memory function.

Verb 'tsukasadoru' (to govern/rule).

7

その法律は、もはや現状には機能していない。

That law is no longer functioning in the current situation.

Adverb 'mohaya' (no longer).

8

ユーザーの要望に応えて、新機能を追加した。

In response to user requests, we added new functions.

Pattern '...ni kotaete' (in response to).

1

言語の伝達機能だけでなく、情緒的機能にも注目すべきだ。

We should focus not only on the communicative function of language but also its emotional function.

Pattern '...dake de naku ...mo' (not only... but also).

2

都市の再開発により、商業機能が集約された。

Commercial functions were integrated through urban redevelopment.

Passive voice 'shūyaku sareta'.

3

機能不全に陥った組織を立て直すのは容易ではない。

It is not easy to rebuild an organization that has fallen into dysfunction.

Compound 'kinō fuzen' (dysfunction).

4

この理論は、社会システムがどのように機能するかを説明している。

This theory explains how social systems function.

Embedded question with 'ka'.

5

機能主義的なアプローチは、実用性を最優先する。

A functionalist approach prioritizes practicality above all else.

Adjective 'kinō-shugi-teki' (functionalist).

6

高度な情報処理機能を持つAIが開発されている。

AI with advanced information processing functions is being developed.

Relative clause modifying 'AI'.

7

家族の持つ教育的機能が、近年変化してきている。

The educational function held by families has been changing in recent years.

Verb form '...te kite iru' (has been changing).

8

免疫機能のバランスを保つことが、病気予防に不可欠だ。

Maintaining the balance of immune function is essential for disease prevention.

Noun 'fukaketsu' (indispensable).

1

構造改革を通じて、行政機能の効率化を図るべきである。

We should aim for the efficiency of administrative functions through structural reform.

Formal 'beki de aru' (should).

2

その建築物は、形態が機能に従うという原則を体現している。

That building embodies the principle that form follows function.

Quotation 'to iu' followed by 'gensoku' (principle).

3

認知機能の減退を抑制するための、多角的なアプローチが求められている。

A multifaceted approach is required to suppress the decline of cognitive functions.

Passive voice 'motomerarete iru'.

4

グローバル経済において、国家の枠組みが機能しづらくなっている。

In a global economy, national frameworks are becoming harder to function.

Adjective suffix '-dzurai' (hard to do).

5

機能的な分化が進むにつれ、社会の複雑性は増大していく。

As functional differentiation progresses, the complexity of society increases.

Pattern '...ni tsure' (as ... progresses).

6

心理学的機能の深層を探ることで、人間の本質に迫る。

By exploring the depths of psychological functions, we approach the essence of humanity.

Te-form '...koto de' (by doing...).

7

市場メカニズムが適切に機能するための法的整備が急務だ。

Legal preparation for the market mechanism to function properly is an urgent task.

Noun 'kyūmu' (urgent task).

8

自己組織化プロセスによって、新たな機能が創発される。

New functions emerge through self-organizing processes.

Passive voice 'sōhatsu sareru' (is emerged/created).

Synonyms

働き 役割 性能 作用 効用

Antonyms

逆機能 麻痺 故障
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