出力 in 30 Seconds
- Shutsuryoku means 'output'—data or energy leaving a system.
- It is commonly used as a verb: 'shutsuryoku suru' (to output/export).
- It is the technical opposite of 'nyuryoku' (input).
- Used in IT (files/screens), engineering (power), and productivity (expression).
The Japanese word 出力 (しゅつりょく - shutsuryoku) is a fundamental term that bridges the gap between everyday technology and specialized engineering. At its core, it represents the concept of 'output.' In a world increasingly dominated by digital interfaces and mechanical systems, understanding how things 'come out' of a system is crucial. The word is composed of two kanji: 出 (to go out/exit) and 力 (power/force). Together, they literally translate to 'exiting power.'
- Technical Context
- In the realm of computing, shutsuryoku refers to the data sent from a computer to a device like a monitor, printer, or speaker. When you click 'print,' you are initiating an output process.
データをプリンターに出力します。(I will output the data to the printer.)
Beyond computers, shutsuryoku is used to describe the power or performance of engines and motors. If you are discussing a car's horsepower or a power plant's electricity generation, this is the word you need. It implies a measurable quantity of energy being produced and directed toward a specific task. In recent years, the term has also expanded into creative and social fields, referring to the 'output' of an artist or the results of a collaborative project.
- Mechanical Context
- This word is used to describe the wattage of a microwave or the lumens of a projector. Higher shutsuryoku generally means more capability or intensity.
このエンジンの最大出力は高いです。(The maximum output of this engine is high.)
In a work environment, you might hear this word when discussing reports or file formats. 'PDF output' or 'CSV output' are common phrases. It signifies the transformation of internal data into a readable or usable external format. It is a formal, precise word, so while you might use 'deru' (to come out) in casual conversation, 'shutsuryoku' is preferred in manuals, professional settings, and technical discussions.
- Creative Context
- Sometimes used to describe the amount of work an author or creator produces over a period of time, though 'sakuhin' (work) is more common.
画面にエラーを出力する。(Output an error to the screen.)
ファイルをPDF形式で出力してください。(Please output the file in PDF format.)
スピーカーの出力を上げてください。(Please turn up the speaker output.)
Using 出力 correctly requires understanding its role as both a noun and a potential verb. In its simplest form, it functions as a noun that identifies the result of a process. For example, 'The output is clear' would be 'Shutsuryoku wa meiryou desu.' However, its most common application in modern Japanese is as a 'suru-verb,' where you add 'suru' to the end to mean 'to output' or 'to export.'
- Basic Verb Usage
- When you want to say 'I am exporting a file,' you use shutsuryoku shimasu. This is the standard way to describe saving data into a specific format.
ログファイルを出力しました。(I have output the log file.)
When describing hardware, shutsuryoku often takes a possessive particle 'no' or is part of a compound word. For instance, 'maximum output' is saidai shutsuryoku. If you are comparing two machines, you might say 'Machine A has a higher output than Machine B.' This usage is very common in automotive reviews and electronics specifications. It focuses on the capability of the device rather than a single action.
- Hardware Specifications
- Use shutsuryoku to discuss horsepower (ba-riki), wattage (watto), or any measure of work performed over time by a machine.
アンプの出力が足りません。(The amplifier's output is insufficient.)
In a more abstract sense, especially in business or psychology, 'output' refers to the tangible results of one's efforts. If you read a lot of books (input) and then write a blog post, the blog post is your 'output.' Japanese business culture places a high value on this balance. You will often hear advice like 'Increase your output to solidify your learning.' In this context, it isn't just about machines; it's about human productivity and expression.
- Productivity Context
- Refers to the act of speaking, writing, or creating based on information you have absorbed.
学んだことをブログで出力する。(Output what you've learned on a blog.)
この発電所は大きな出力を持っています。(This power plant has a large output.)
計算結果を画面に出力してください。(Please output the calculation results to the screen.)
You will encounter 出力 most frequently in environments involving computers, manufacturing, or technical documentation. If you work in an office in Japan, you'll see this word every day on printer menus and software interfaces. When a colleague says, 'Can you output this as an Excel file?' they are using the professional standard for 'export' or 'generate report.' It is less about the physical paper coming out and more about the data being processed into a specific state.
- The Office Environment
- Used when dealing with databases, spreadsheets, and document management systems. 'Outputting' is the final step of a task.
資料を紙で出力しますか？(Shall I output the documents on paper? [Print them?])
In the world of Japanese hobbies, specifically gaming and home theater, shutsuryoku is everywhere. On the back of a PlayStation or a Nintendo Switch, the ports are labeled with 'Shutsuryoku' (Output) and 'Nyuryoku' (Input). If you are troubleshooting why your sound isn't working, a Japanese friend might ask, 'Is the audio output set correctly?' (Onsei shutsuryoku wa tadashii desu ka?). It is an essential word for anyone navigating technology in Japan.
- Gaming and Media
- Essential for understanding hardware connections, HDMI settings, and audio-visual configurations.
4K解像度で出力可能です。(Output is possible in 4K resolution.)
Automotive enthusiasts and engineers use shutsuryoku to discuss engine performance. In car magazines like 'Best Car' or 'Car Graphic,' you'll see charts comparing the 'Maximum Output' (Saidai Shutsuryoku) of different vehicles. Here, it is often measured in kilowatts (kW) or horsepower (PS). Even in the transition to Electric Vehicles (EVs), the term remains vital for describing the power of the electric motors.
- Engineering and Science
- Used in physics and engineering to describe the rate at which work is done or energy is transferred.
エンジンの出力特性を改善する。(Improve the engine's output characteristics.)
音声を外部スピーカーに出力する。(Output the audio to external speakers.)
このレーザーは非常に高い出力です。(This laser has a very high output.)
One of the most frequent mistakes learners make is confusing 出力 (shutsuryoku) with 結果 (kekka). While both can be translated as 'result,' shutsuryoku specifically refers to the *delivery* of that result from a system. You wouldn't say the 'shutsuryoku' of a soccer game was 2-1; you would use 'kekka.' Use shutsuryoku only when a machine or a systematic process is 'pushing out' data or energy.
- Mistake: Result vs. Output
- Don't use shutsuryoku for the outcome of an event or a test score. Use it for the action of a printer or computer showing that score.
❌ テストの出力が悪かった。(The test 'output' was bad - Incorrect)
✅ テストの結果が悪かった。(The test 'result' was bad - Correct)
Another common error is using shutsuryoku when you actually mean insatsu (printing). While printing involves output, insatsu specifically refers to the act of putting ink on paper. If you tell someone you are going to 'shutsuryoku' a document, they might think you are just exporting the file to a folder. If you want the physical paper, insatsu or the casual purinto is often clearer, though shutsuryoku is used in formal IT contexts to mean 'print'.
- Mistake: Printing Confusion
- In a casual office, saying insatsu shimasu is more natural for physical printing than shutsuryoku shimasu.
❌ 紙に出力してください。(Please 'output' to paper - a bit stiff)
✅ 印刷してください。(Please print it - more natural)
Finally, watch out for the direction. Beginners sometimes swap shutsuryoku (output) with nyuryoku (input). This is like confusing 'exit' with 'entrance.' If you are putting data into a computer, it is nyuryoku. If the computer is giving it back, it is shutsuryoku. Getting these backwards can lead to significant confusion in technical troubleshooting.
- Mistake: Input vs. Output
- Always remember the first kanji: 出 (out) vs 入 (in).
❌ キーボードで出力する。(Output with a keyboard - makes no sense)
✅ キーボードで入力する。(Input with a keyboard - Correct)
While 出力 (shutsuryoku) is the go-to word for technical output, there are several other words that overlap in meaning depending on the context. Understanding these nuances will make your Japanese sound more natural and precise. The most direct counterpart is 入力 (nyuryoku), which means 'input.' Together, they form the 'I/O' (Input/Output) cycle essential to all technology.
- Comparison: Shutsuryoku vs. Haishutsu
- While shutsuryoku is for energy or data, 排出 (haishutsu) is for physical waste or emissions, like CO2 from a car exhaust.
車の排気ガスを排出する。(Emit car exhaust gases.)
Another similar word is 書き出し (kakidashi). This is often used in software specifically to mean 'exporting' or 'writing out' a file. While shutsuryoku is more general (including sound and power), kakidashi is very common in video editing and design software when you are saving your final project as a video or image file. It feels slightly more 'action-oriented' within a specific program.
- Comparison: Shutsuryoku vs. Kakidashi
- Shutsuryoku is formal and technical. Kakidashi is commonly used in creative software menus (Export).
動画をMP4で書き出す。(Export the video as MP4.)
Finally, we have 産出 (sanshutsu) and 生産 (seisan). Sanshutsu is used for natural resources, like 'oil production' or 'agricultural yield.' Seisan is for manufacturing goods in a factory. While these also involve 'outputting' something, they are used for economic and industrial production rather than the momentary output of a machine's energy or data.
- Comparison: Shutsuryoku vs. Seisan
- Shutsuryoku is the power of the machine; Seisan is the number of items the machine made.
工場で車を生産する。(Produce cars at a factory.)
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The kanji for 'power' (力) originally depicted a plow, symbolizing the physical strength needed for farming.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing 'ryoku' as two distinct sounds 'ri-yo-ku'. It should be 'ryo-ku'.
- Over-emphasizing the 'u' in 'shutsu'. It is often devoiced in natural speech.
Difficulty Rating
The kanji are basic (Level 4/5), but the reading 'shutsuryoku' needs practice.
Writing 'shutsuryoku' requires remembering the strokes for 'ryoku' vs 'katana'.
Easy to pronounce if you don't trip over the 'ryo' sound.
Common in tech contexts, so it becomes easy to recognize quickly.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Suru-verbs (Noun + する)
出力する (To output)
Particle 'ni' for destination
画面に出力する (Output to the screen)
Particle 'de' for method/format
CSVで出力する (Output as CSV)
Potential form with 'dekiru'
出力できる (Can output)
Compound nouns
最大出力 (Max output)
Examples by Level
これをプリンターに出力します。
I will output (print) this to the printer.
Noun + ni + shutsuryoku shimasu.
出力ボタンはどこですか？
Where is the output button?
Shutsuryoku + botan (noun compound).
画面に出力が出ます。
The output will appear on the screen.
Shutsuryoku as a subject.
音の出力が小さいです。
The sound output is low.
Possessive particle 'no'.
出力ができません。
I cannot output (it).
Shutsuryoku + ga + dekimasen.
データを紙に出力してください。
Please output the data onto paper.
Te-form for a request.
出力が終わりました。
The output has finished.
Shutsuryoku + ga + owarimashita.
きれいな出力です。
It is a clean output.
Adjective + noun.
ファイルをPDFで出力してください。
Please output the file as a PDF.
Method particle 'de'.
このスピーカーは出力が高いです。
This speaker has a high output.
Topic + ga + adjective.
エラーを出力しました。
It outputted an error.
Object marker 'o'.
最大出力は何ワットですか？
What is the maximum output in watts?
Compound noun: Saidai-shutsuryoku.
出力の設定を確認します。
I will check the output settings.
Shutsuryoku + no + settei.
テレビに出力できません。
I cannot output to the TV.
Potential form (negative).
計算結果を出力します。
I will output the calculation results.
Object + o + verb.
出力先を選んでください。
Please choose the output destination.
Shutsuryoku-saki (destination).
このエンジンの最大出力は200馬力です。
The maximum output of this engine is 200 horsepower.
Technical specification usage.
学んだことをブログに出力しましょう。
Let's output what we've learned on a blog.
Abstract/Metaphorical usage.
出力形式を選択してください。
Please select the output format.
Formal compound noun.
アンプの出力が不安定です。
The amplifier's output is unstable.
Describing performance status.
データをCSV形式で一括出力する。
Batch output data in CSV format.
Adverbial usage: ikkatsu (batch).
出力レベルを調整してください。
Please adjust the output level.
Shutsuryoku + reberu.
太陽光パネルの出力をチェックする。
Check the output of the solar panels.
Renewable energy context.
このソフトは4K出力をサポートしている。
This software supports 4K output.
IT terminology.
出力特性のグラフを作成した。
I created a graph of the output characteristics.
Technical analysis term.
インプットだけでなく、アウトプット（出力）も重要だ。
Not just input, but output is also important.
Using katakana synonym for emphasis.
高出力のレーザーを使用しています。
We are using a high-output laser.
Kou-shutsuryoku (High output).
システムの出力データを解析する。
Analyze the system's output data.
Professional workflow description.
この発電所は地域の電力を出力している。
This power plant outputs the region's electricity.
Utility/Industrial context.
出力インピーダンスの整合を図る。
Aim for output impedance matching.
Advanced engineering term.
ログを出力するように設定を変更した。
Changed settings to output logs.
Conjunction: ~youni (so that).
出力結果をファイルに保存しました。
Saved the output results to a file.
Redundant but common usage.
出力の変動要因を特定する必要がある。
It is necessary to identify the factors causing output fluctuations.
Academic research phrasing.
理論的な最大出力値を算出する。
Calculate the theoretical maximum output value.
Calculation verbs usage.
デジタル信号をアナログ信号として出力する。
Output a digital signal as an analog signal.
Signal processing context.
出力の安定性を確保するための装置。
A device to ensure the stability of the output.
Purpose clause: ~tame no.
この論文は彼の研究の集大成的な出力だ。
This paper is the culminating output of his research.
Metaphorical academic usage.
低出力時における効率の低下が課題だ。
The decrease in efficiency during low output is an issue.
Noun + ji (time/at the time of).
リアルタイムでデータを出力するシステム。
A system that outputs data in real-time.
Compound modifiers.
出力ポートの規格を確認してください。
Please check the specifications of the output port.
Technical hardware term.
出力の線形性を維持することが肝要である。
Maintaining the linearity of the output is vital.
Formal 'kanyou' (vital) ending.
熱出力と電気出力の比率を最適化する。
Optimize the ratio between thermal output and electrical output.
Comparative technical analysis.
脳波の出力を解析して思考を読み取る。
Analyze brainwave output to read thoughts.
Speculative science context.
出力インジケータが閾値を超えています。
The output indicator has exceeded the threshold.
Advanced vocabulary: 'shikiich' (threshold).
この経済モデルは、資本投入に対する出力を予測する。
This economic model predicts output relative to capital input.
Economics context.
情報の出力に際して、厳格な検閲が行われる。
Strict censorship is performed upon the output of information.
Formal 'ni saishite' (upon/when).
出力段の歪みを最小限に抑える設計。
A design that minimizes distortion in the output stage.
Engineering 'dan' (stage).
出力密度を向上させるための新素材の開発。
Development of new materials to improve output density.
Materials science context.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— To output or export data/energy.
結果をファイルに出力する。
— To obtain an output (often used in experiments).
十分な出力が得られた。
— To have high power or intensity.
この暖房は出力が高い。
— The destination of the output (printer, folder, etc.).
出力先を選択してください。
— To increase the output/volume/power.
エンジンの出力を上げる。
— To reduce or restrict the output.
音声を最小限に出力を絞る。
— An error during the output process.
出力ミスで文字が化けた。
— Waiting for the output to finish.
プリンターが出力待ちの状態だ。
— The data that has been outputted.
出力データを確認してください。
— Output device (monitor, printer).
出力デバイスが見つかりません。
Often Confused With
Kekka is the 'result' of an event. Shutsuryoku is the 'output' of a system.
Haishutsu is for physical waste/gas. Shutsuryoku is for data/energy.
Insatsu is specifically printing on paper. Shutsuryoku is more general.
Idioms & Expressions
— Full output/Full power. Usually used for engines or metaphorical effort.
出力全開でプロジェクトに取り組む。
Casual/Enthusiastic— Too much taking in (learning/reading) and not enough putting out (creating/speaking).
現代人はアウトプット不足になりがちだ。
Business/Self-helpEasily Confused
Both mean 'export'.
Kakidashi is more common in creative apps (video/photo). Shutsuryoku is more formal/IT.
動画を書き出す vs データを出力する。
Both mean sending something out.
Hassin is for messages or signals (communication). Shutsuryoku is for data or energy (mechanical).
情報を発信する vs 音声を出力する。
Sentence Patterns
[Noun] を 出力します。
データを 出力します。
[Destination] に [Noun] を 出力する。
プリンターに ファイルを 出力する。
[Format] で 出力してください。
エクセルで 出力してください。
[Noun] の 出力が [Adjective] です。
エンジンの 出力が 高いです。
出力の [Noun] を [Verb] する。
出力の 安定性を 確保する。
[Noun] に際して、出力を [Verb]。
解析に際して、出力を 調整する。
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
Extremely high in IT, Engineering, and Business.
-
Using shutsuryoku for test scores.
→
Kekka (結果)
Shutsuryoku is for machines/systems, not human achievements.
-
Confusing shutsuryoku with nyuryoku.
→
Nyuryoku (入力)
Remember: Shutsu = Out, Nyu = In.
Tips
Use with 'suru'
Remember that 'shutsuryoku' is a noun that becomes a verb. 'Shutsuryoku shimasu' is the most common way to use it.
Office Settings
If you are at a Japanese office, look for '出力' on the printer or scanner display.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a **SHU**te (Shutsu) where **RYOKU** (Power) is sliding out. SHU-RYOKU = Output!
Visual Association
A printer spitting out a bright green paper with a 'Power' icon on it.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to find the word '出力' on three different electronic devices or software menus today.
Word Origin
Sino-Japanese (Kango) word. 'Shutsu' (出) means to emerge or exit. 'Ryoku' (力) means power or strength.
Original meaning: The power that comes out of something.
Japanese (Kango)Cultural Context
None. It is a purely technical and neutral term.
In English, we use 'output' for machines but 'export' for files. Japanese uses 'shutsuryoku' for both.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Office Work
- PDFで出力する
- 一括出力
- 出力ミス
- 出力先を確認
Hardware/IT
- HDMI出力
- 音声出力デバイス
- 4K出力
- 出力ポート
Automotive/Engineering
- 最大出力
- 馬力出力
- 出力特性
- 高出力エンジン
Self-Improvement
- アウトプット（出力）重視
- 学びを出力する
- 出力の習慣
- インプットと出力のバランス
Home Electronics
- 電子レンジの出力
- スピーカーの出力
- 出力切替
- AC出力
Conversation Starters
"このファイルをどの形式で出力すればいいですか？ (In which format should I output this file?)"
"スピーカーの出力が弱くないですか？ (Isn't the speaker output weak?)"
"最近、勉強したことをどうやって出力していますか？ (How have you been outputting what you learned recently?)"
"このエンジンの最大出力はどれくらいですか？ (What is the maximum output of this engine?)"
"出力先を間違えてしまいました。 (I accidentally chose the wrong output destination.)"
Journal Prompts
今日学んだ新しい言葉を、どのようにブログや日記に出力しましたか？ (How did you output the new words you learned today in your blog or diary?)
あなたの仕事や趣味で、一番よく使う『出力』は何ですか？ (What is the 'output' you use most in your work or hobbies?)
高出力なマシン（車やPC）を持っていたら、何をしたいですか？ (If you had a high-output machine (car or PC), what would you want to do?)
インプットと出力のバランスについて、どう思いますか？ (What do you think about the balance between input and output?)
最近のテクノロジーで、驚いた『出力』はありますか？ (Is there any 'output' in recent technology that surprised you?)
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questionsYes, in a professional IT context, 'shutsuryoku' is often used to mean 'print to paper.' However, in daily life, 'insatsu' or 'purinto' is more common.
'Shutsuryoku' is the technical Japanese word. 'Auto-putto' is the katakana version often used in business or self-help to mean 'expressing oneself' or 'producing results.'
You say 'shutsuryoku keishiki' (出力形式).
Not usually. It's for machines. For humans, we use 'datsuryoku' (losing strength) or 'honryou' (true power), unless speaking metaphorically about work output.
Yes, 'onsei o shutsuryoku suru' (音声を出力する) is very common in tech specs.
Test Yourself 20 questions
Write 'Please output the results' in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Say 'I am outputting a file.'
Read this aloud:
You said:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Translate: 'The output is unstable.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write 'High output laser'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
/ 20 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
Use '出力' (shutsuryoku) whenever you discuss a machine or system producing a result, whether it's a printed page, an exported file, or engine horsepower. Example: 'データをPDFで出力する' (Output data as a PDF).
- Shutsuryoku means 'output'—data or energy leaving a system.
- It is commonly used as a verb: 'shutsuryoku suru' (to output/export).
- It is the technical opposite of 'nyuryoku' (input).
- Used in IT (files/screens), engineering (power), and productivity (expression).
Use with 'suru'
Remember that 'shutsuryoku' is a noun that becomes a verb. 'Shutsuryoku shimasu' is the most common way to use it.
Office Settings
If you are at a Japanese office, look for '出力' on the printer or scanner display.
Example
結果出力です。
Related Content
More Technology words
接続
A1Setsuzoku refers to the act of connecting or joining two or more things together. It is most commonly used in technical contexts like internet connections, transportation transfers, or linguistic conjunctions.
データ
A1Information, especially in the form of facts or figures, collected for reference or analysis. In modern usage, it frequently refers to digital files or cellular internet usage stored on electronic devices.
開発
A1The process of creating or improving new products, software, or technologies, as well as the exploitation of natural resources or land. It often refers to systematic activities intended to produce something new or better for social or commercial use.
表示
A1The act of displaying or indicating information, often through signs, labels, or digital screens. It is commonly used to describe how data is shown on a computer or how products are labeled in a store.
ファイル
A1A physical folder or binder used for organizing papers, as well as a digital document or data set stored on a computer. It is a versatile loanword used in both office environments and digital contexts.
フォルダ
A1A folder is a container used to store and organize physical documents or digital files on a computer. It allows users to group related items together to keep their workspace or storage system organized.
融合
B2The blending or fusion of different things (cultures, technologies, styles) into a single entity. It implies a harmonious or functional merging.
識別
B2To recognize or distinguish between different things. Often used in technical contexts like sensors, pattern recognition, or categorization.
入力
A1The act of entering data or information into a computer, smartphone, or electronic system. It is used both as a noun and as a verb when combined with 'suru'.
ネット
A1A common abbreviation for 'Internet' or 'Network,' primarily used to describe the online world and digital services. It can also refer to a physical mesh structure, such as those used in sports like tennis or for catching fish.
