実験 em 30 segundos
- Used for scientific tests.
- Combines with 'suru' to mean 'to experiment'.
- Means trying something new to see what happens.
- Different from 'experience' (keiken).
The Japanese word 実験 (jikken) translates to 'experiment' or 'test' in English. It is a fundamental noun used across both scientific and everyday contexts to describe the process of trying something out to discover a result, verify a hypothesis, or demonstrate a known fact. Understanding this word requires looking at its kanji components. The first kanji, 実 (jitsu), means 'truth,' 'reality,' or 'actual.' The second kanji, 験 (ken), means 'verification,' 'effect,' or 'testing.' When combined, they literally mean 'verifying the truth' or 'testing reality,' which perfectly encapsulates the essence of an experiment. This word is categorized at the CEFR A1 level because it is commonly introduced early in language learning, especially in school-related vocabulary, but its usage scales all the way up to advanced academic and professional discourse.
- Scientific Context
- In a laboratory or academic setting, 実験 refers to rigorous scientific procedures. It implies controlled conditions, variables, and empirical observation.
科学の授業で実験をしました。
Beyond the laboratory, 実験 is frequently used in daily life to describe trying out a new method, recipe, or lifestyle change just to see what happens. For instance, if you decide to wake up at 5 AM every day for a week to see if it improves your productivity, you might call that a 'life experiment' (生活の実験). This metaphorical use is highly common and makes the word versatile.
- Business Context
- In business, it refers to pilot programs, A/B testing, or market trials. Companies often conduct 'demonstration experiments' (実証実験) before launching a product.
新しいマーケティング手法を実験する。
It is crucial to distinguish 実験 from similar words like 経験 (keiken - experience) and 試験 (shiken - exam/test). While all three share the 験 kanji, their meanings are distinct. 経験 is about living through an event and gaining knowledge from it. 試験 is an evaluation of knowledge or performance, like a school test. 実験 is strictly about the act of testing a hypothesis or trying something new to observe the outcome.
- Everyday Context
- Using the word casually to describe cooking a new dish without a recipe or taking a new route to work to see if it is faster.
これは料理の実験です。
彼を実験台にするな。
In summary, mastering the word 実験 opens up your ability to discuss science, business strategies, and personal trials. It is a dynamic word that bridges the gap between strict academic terminology and casual, everyday curiosity. By understanding its kanji roots and common collocations, learners can confidently integrate this word into their active Japanese vocabulary.
その実験は成功しました。
Using the word 実験 (jikken) correctly in Japanese involves understanding its grammatical behavior and the specific verbs and adjectives it frequently pairs with. As a verbal noun (noun + suru), it is incredibly flexible. The most basic and common way to use it is by adding the verb する (suru - to do), creating 実験する (to experiment). This form can be conjugated just like any other Group 3 verb: 実験します (formal), 実験した (past), 実験している (ongoing), and so on. However, in formal or academic writing, you will often see it paired with the verb 行う (okonau - to conduct/carry out). Saying 実験を行う sounds much more professional and objective than 実験をする.
- Verb Pairing: する (suru)
- The standard, everyday way to say 'to experiment'. Used in conversation and general writing.
明日、学校で実験します。
When describing the outcome of an experiment, two key nouns are almost always used: 成功 (seikou - success) and 失敗 (shippai - failure). You can say 実験に成功する (to succeed in an experiment) or 実験が失敗する (the experiment fails). Notice the particles: 'ni' is often used with success to indicate the target of the success, while 'ga' is used with failure to mark the experiment as the subject that failed. Another crucial pairing is with the word 結果 (kekka - result). The phrase 実験結果 (jikken kekka) is a very common compound noun meaning 'experimental results'.
- Verb Pairing: 行う (okonau)
- The formal way to say 'to conduct an experiment'. Essential for academic and business Japanese.
大学で新しい実験を行った。
Another important grammatical aspect is how to specify *what* you are experimenting on. You use the particle について (ni tsuite - about/regarding) or the particle の (no) to link the subject to the word. For example, 物理の実験 (butsuri no jikken - physics experiment) or 動物を使った実験 (doubutsu o tsukatta jikken - experiments using animals). If you want to say 'an experiment to prove X', you would use the structure Xを証明するための実験 (X o shoumei suru tame no jikken).
- Compound Nouns
- 実験 easily forms compound nouns. Examples include 実験室 (laboratory), 実験者 (experimenter), and 実験的 (experimental).
これは非常に実験的な試みです。
実験室はどこですか？
Finally, consider the nuances of repetition. Experiments often need to be repeated. The verb 繰り返す (kurikaesu - to repeat) is frequently used: 実験を繰り返す (to repeat the experiment). This implies a rigorous process of trial and error (試行錯誤 - shikousakugo), which is a four-character idiom (yojijukugo) that pairs beautifully with the concept of 実験. By mastering these collocations and grammatical structures, your use of the word will sound natural, precise, and sophisticated.
何度も実験を繰り返した。
The word 実験 (jikken) is ubiquitous in Japanese society, appearing in a wide variety of contexts ranging from elementary school classrooms to high-level corporate boardrooms, and heavily featuring in popular media. One of the most common places you will hear this word is in educational settings. From a young age, Japanese students participate in 理科の実験 (rika no jikken - science experiments). You will hear teachers instructing students to put on their safety goggles and carefully follow the steps of the 実験. This early exposure makes the word deeply ingrained in the vocabulary of every native speaker.
- In Anime and Manga
- The 'mad scientist' trope is incredibly popular in Japanese pop culture. Characters will often shout about their dangerous or forbidden 実験.
私の恐ろしい実験が始まるぞ！
In the news, the word is frequently used in segments covering medical breakthroughs, space exploration, and technological advancements. News anchors will report on 臨床実験 (rinshou jikken - clinical trials) for new medications, or 宇宙空間での実験 (uchuukuukan de no jikken - experiments in outer space) conducted by astronauts on the International Space Station. In these contexts, the word carries a tone of seriousness, progress, and societal importance. The related term 実証実験 (jisshou jikken - demonstration experiment/field trial) is also a staple in business news, particularly regarding self-driving cars or new smart city technologies.
- In Business and Tech
- Startups and tech companies use the word to describe A/B testing, beta testing, and market validation.
新しいアプリの実証実験を開始します。
You will also hear it in casual, everyday conversations. Japanese people often use the word metaphorically. If someone is trying out a bizarre new recipe, mixing strange ingredients together, a friend might jokingly ask, '何の実験？' (Nan no jikken? - What kind of experiment is this?). Similarly, if someone changes their hairstyle drastically or tries a completely new fashion style, they might refer to it as a personal 実験. This playful usage highlights the word's flexibility and how it has transcended its strict scientific origins.
- In YouTube and Social Media
- There is a massive genre of 'experiment videos' (実験動画 - jikken douga) on Japanese YouTube, featuring creators doing crazy science tricks or life hacks.
今日の動画はメントスコーラ実験です！
Finally, the word appears frequently in literature, both fiction and non-fiction. Science fiction novels heavily rely on the term to build their worlds, while self-help books might encourage readers to treat their lives as a series of 実験 to find what truly makes them happy. By paying attention to these various contexts—school, news, pop culture, business, and casual chat—you will develop a well-rounded understanding of how and when to deploy this essential vocabulary word.
人生は壮大な実験だ。
あのYouTuberの実験は面白い。
When learning the word 実験 (jikken), Japanese learners frequently encounter a few specific stumbling blocks. The most prevalent mistake is confusing it with other words that share the 験 (ken) kanji, specifically 経験 (keiken - experience) and 試験 (shiken - exam/test). Because they sound somewhat similar and share a visual component, learners often swap them accidentally. For example, a learner might say '日本での実験は楽しかった' (My experiment in Japan was fun) when they actually meant '日本での経験は楽しかった' (My experience in Japan was fun). This mistake can lead to very confusing conversations, making the speaker sound like a mad scientist rather than a tourist.
- Mistake: Confusing with 経験 (Experience)
- 実験 is for testing a hypothesis. 経験 is for personal life experiences. Do not use 実験 to talk about your past travels or jobs.
❌ 留学の実験は役に立った。
⭕ 留学の経験は役に立った。
Another common error relates to verb pairing. While 実験する (to experiment) is perfectly correct, learners sometimes try to use the verb 作る (tsukuru - to make) with it, saying 実験を作る (to make an experiment). In English, we might say 'set up an experiment' or 'create an experiment,' but in Japanese, the standard verbs are する (to do) or 行う (to conduct). You do not 'make' an experiment in Japanese; you execute it. If you want to talk about the preparation phase, you should use 準備する (junbi suru - to prepare): 実験の準備をする (to prepare for the experiment).
- Mistake: Confusing with 試験 (Exam)
- 試験 is used for evaluating knowledge, like a math test or a driving test. 実験 is not an exam.
❌ 明日、日本語の実験がある。
⭕ 明日、日本語の試験がある。
Pronunciation can also be a slight issue. The word is じっけん (jikken), with a small 'tsu' (っ) indicating a geminate consonant (a double 'k' sound). Some learners rush through the word and pronounce it as 'jiken' (事件), which means 'incident,' 'crime,' or 'scandal.' Saying '学校で事件をした' means 'I committed a crime at school' instead of 'I did an experiment at school.' This is a critical pronunciation error that drastically changes the meaning of the sentence. Always ensure you pause slightly on the double consonant to make the 'kk' sound clear.
- Mistake: Incorrect Particle Usage
- When saying 'experiment ON something', learners often use に (ni). While sometimes acceptable, を使った (using) or を対象とした (targeting) is often more natural.
❌ ネズミに実験する。
⭕ ネズミを使った実験をする。
By being mindful of these common pitfalls—distinguishing it from experience and exams, using the correct verbs, mastering the double consonant pronunciation, and applying the right particles—you can use the word 実験 with the precision of a native speaker. It is a powerful word, but it requires exactness to avoid unintended, and sometimes comical, misunderstandings.
正しい発音で実験と言いましょう。
これは実験であり、事件ではありません。
To fully grasp the nuances of 実験 (jikken), it is highly beneficial to explore its synonyms and related terms. The Japanese language is rich with vocabulary that expresses testing, trying, and experiencing, and knowing the subtle differences between these words will elevate your fluency. The most direct English synonym for experiment is 'test,' which in Japanese is often just the loanword テスト (tesuto). However, テスト is much broader. It can mean a school exam, a software check, or a microphone check. 実験 is strictly an experiment designed to discover something unknown or prove a theory. You would do a テスト to see if a machine works, but you would do a 実験 to see how a new chemical reacts.
- 試み (Kokoromi - Attempt/Trial)
- This word focuses on the act of trying something new, often with an emotional or ambitious undertone. It lacks the strict scientific rigor of 実験.
それは大胆な試みだ。（実験的要素を含む）
Another closely related word is 試験 (shiken). As mentioned in the Common Mistakes section, 試験 is primarily an exam or a standardized test. However, in industrial or engineering contexts, 試験 can mean 'testing' the properties of a material (e.g., 耐久試験 - taikyuu shiken - durability test). The difference here is that 試験 is checking if something meets a specific standard, whereas 実験 is exploring the unknown. Then there is 検証 (kenshou - verification). 検証 is the process of proving that something is true or valid. An experiment (実験) is often the method used to achieve verification (検証).
- 実証 (Jisshou - Demonstration/Proof)
- Often combined with 実験 to form 実証実験 (demonstration experiment). It means proving a concept works in the real world.
理論を実証するための実験。
We must also consider the verb 試す (tamesu - to try/to test). This is a very common, everyday verb. If you want to try a new flavor of ice cream, you use 試す. If you want to test your physical limits, you use 試す. 実験する is a much heavier, more formal version of 試す, usually involving a structured process. You wouldn't normally say 'I'm going to experiment on this ice cream' unless you were analyzing its chemical composition. You would just say 'I'm going to try it' (試してみる).
- テスト (Tesuto - Test)
- The English loanword. Very versatile, but usually implies checking functionality or knowledge rather than scientific discovery.
マイクのテスト中。（実験ではない）
Understanding this web of related words—テスト, 試み, 試験, 検証, 実証, and 試す—allows you to pinpoint exactly why 実験 is the correct word for scientific and structured discovery. It carries a weight of curiosity, methodology, and the pursuit of truth (実) through testing (験). By carefully selecting the right word from this group, your Japanese will become incredibly precise and expressive, allowing you to navigate both casual conversations and complex academic discussions with ease.
彼の試みは、もはや実験の域に達している。
検証のために実験を行う。
How Formal Is It?
Nível de dificuldade
Gramática essencial
Noun + する (Verbal Nouns)
ために (In order to)
によって (By means of)
受身形 (Passive form - for formal reports)
てみる (To try doing - related concept)
Exemplos por nível
学校で実験をします。
I do an experiment at school.
Uses the basic verb する (to do) in the polite 'masu' form.
これは理科の実験です。
This is a science experiment.
Uses the particle の to link 'science' and 'experiment'.
実験は面白いです。
Experiments are interesting.
Simple A wa B desu structure with an i-adjective.
明日、実験があります。
There is an experiment tomorrow.
Uses あります to indicate the existence or scheduling of an event.
実験が好きです。
I like experiments.
Uses が好きです to express preference.
実験をしません。
I don't do experiments.
Negative polite form of する.
先生と実験をしました。
I did an experiment with the teacher.
Uses the particle と (with) and past tense.
何の実験ですか？
What kind of experiment is it?
Question word 何 (nan) used with の.
簡単な実験をしましょう。
Let's do a simple experiment.
Uses the volitional form ましょう (let's).
実験が成功して、嬉しいです。
The experiment succeeded, and I am happy.
Uses te-form to connect cause and feeling.
この実験は少し危険です。
This experiment is a little dangerous.
Uses a na-adjective (危険) to describe the noun.
実験のレポートを書かなければなりません。
I have to write an experiment report.
Uses the 'must do' grammar structure (nakereba narimasen).
新しい実験をしたいです。
I want to do a new experiment.
Uses the 'tai' form to express desire.
実験が終わった後で、手を洗います。
After the experiment finishes, I wash my hands.
Uses verb past tense + 後で (after doing).
実験のやり方を教えてください。
Please tell me how to do the experiment.
Uses verb stem + 方 (kata - way of doing).
昨日の実験は失敗しました。
Yesterday's experiment failed.
Past tense of 失敗する (to fail).
大学の研究室で実験を行っています。
I am conducting an experiment in the university laboratory.
Uses the formal verb 行う in the continuous te-iru form.
仮説を証明するために、実験を繰り返した。
In order to prove the hypothesis, I repeated the experiment.
Uses ために (in order to) and the verb 繰り返す (to repeat).
実験結果は予想通りでした。
The experimental results were as expected.
Uses the compound noun 実験結果 and the suffix 通り (toori - as).
この実験には特別な機械が必要です。
A special machine is necessary for this experiment.
Uses には to emphasize the purpose/target.
実験のデータをパソコンに入力する。
Input the experiment data into the computer.
Uses the particle に to indicate the destination of the input.
彼は自分を実験台にして薬を試した。
He used himself as a guinea pig to test the medicine.
Uses the idiomatic phrase 実験台にする (to make someone a test subject).
安全を確認してから実験を始めてください。
Please start the experiment after confirming safety.
Uses te-kara (after doing X, do Y).
その実験は倫理的な問題があると言われている。
It is said that the experiment has ethical problems.
Uses the passive structure と言われている (it is said that).
新薬の臨床実験が最終段階に入った。
The clinical trials for the new drug have entered the final stage.
Uses advanced vocabulary 臨床実験 (clinical trial).
自動運転車の実証実験が公道で開始される予定だ。
A demonstration experiment of self-driving cars is scheduled to begin on public roads.
Uses 実証実験 and formal scheduling grammar (予定だ).
動物実験に対する反対運動が激化している。
The opposition movement against animal testing is intensifying.
Uses に対する (against/regarding) with a complex noun phrase.
これは非常に実験的な試みであり、リスクを伴う。
This is a highly experimental attempt and involves risks.
Uses the adjective form 実験的 and the formal conjunction であり.
実験の条件を少し変えるだけで、結果が大きく異なる。
Just by slightly changing the conditions of the experiment, the results differ greatly.
Uses だけで (just by) to show a small cause leading to a big effect.
彼は実験室にこもって、昼夜を問わず研究を続けている。
He shuts himself in the laboratory and continues his research day and night.
Uses the phrase 昼夜を問わず (regardless of day or night).
その理論は、数々の実験によって裏付けられている。
That theory is supported by numerous experiments.
Uses the passive form 裏付けられている (is supported/backed up) and によって (by).
実験の再現性が低いため、論文の信頼性が疑われている。
Because the reproducibility of the experiment is low, the reliability of the paper is being doubted.
Uses formal vocabulary 再現性 (reproducibility) and ため (because).
本実験の目的は、従来のモデルの限界を検証することにある。
The purpose of this experiment lies in verifying the limitations of the conventional model.
Highly formal academic structure using ことにある (lies in).
対照実験を行うことで、プラセボ効果を排除した。
By conducting a controlled experiment, the placebo effect was eliminated.
Uses specialized term 対照実験 (controlled experiment) and formal verb 排除する.
実験データの統計的有意性を検定する必要がある。
It is necessary to test the statistical significance of the experimental data.
Uses advanced statistical terminology (統計的有意性).
この社会実験は、ベーシックインカムの有効性を測るための試金石となる。
This social experiment will serve as a touchstone for measuring the effectiveness of universal basic income.
Uses metaphorical language (試金石 - touchstone) and complex societal concepts.
微小重力環境下での実験は、地上では得られない貴重な知見をもたらす。
Experiments in a microgravity environment bring valuable insights that cannot be obtained on Earth.
Uses highly specific scientific context (微小重力環境下).
実験計画法に基づき、効率的にパラメータの最適化を図った。
Based on the design of experiments, we efficiently aimed for parameter optimization.
Uses engineering terminology (実験計画法 - Design of Experiments).
予備実験の段階で想定外のノイズが混入し、計画の修正を余儀なくされた。
Unexpected noise contaminated the preliminary experiment stage, forcing a revision of the plan.
Uses formal passive causative structure (余儀なくされた - was forced to).
彼の画期的な実験手法は、当該分野におけるパラダイムシフトを引き起こした。
His groundbreaking experimental method caused a paradigm shift in the relevant field.
Uses academic rhetoric (パラダイムシフト, 当該分野).
その思考実験は、量子力学の根源的なパラドックスを浮き彫りにする。
That thought experiment brings the fundamental paradox of quantum mechanics into sharp relief.
Uses 思考実験 (thought experiment) and literary phrasing (浮き彫りにする).
国家規模の壮大な実験とも言えるその政策は、功罪相半ばする結果に終わった。
That policy, which could be called a grand experiment on a national scale, ended with results of mixed merits and demerits.
Uses four-character idiom (功罪相半ばする) and complex apposition.
実験室という閉鎖空間で得られた知見が、直ちに複雑系たる自然界に敷衍できるとは限らない。
Insights obtained in the closed space of a laboratory cannot necessarily be immediately extrapolated to the natural world, which is a complex system.
Uses highly advanced vocabulary (敷衍する - to extrapolate/expand) and logical structures (とは限らない).
倫理的ジレンマを孕むその実験は、科学の暴走に対する警鐘として歴史に名を刻んだ。
Fraught with ethical dilemmas, that experiment etched its name in history as a warning bell against the runaway nature of science.
Uses literary and dramatic vocabulary (孕む, 警鐘, 名を刻む).
二重盲検法による厳密な実験デザインが、バイアスの介在を極限まで排除している。
A rigorous experimental design using the double-blind method eliminates the intervention of bias to the utmost limit.
Uses specific scientific methodology (二重盲検法 - double-blind method).
前衛芸術家によるそのパフォーマンスは、身体の限界を探る過酷な実験であった。
That performance by the avant-garde artist was a grueling experiment exploring the limits of the physical body.
Uses the word in a high-level artistic and metaphorical context.
実験事実の積み重ねのみが、独断と偏見に満ちた旧弊な理論を打破し得る。
Only the accumulation of experimental facts can break down antiquated theories filled with dogma and prejudice.
Uses strong rhetorical phrasing (のみが...し得る) and advanced vocabulary (旧弊, 打破).
彼は自らの人生そのものを、一つの壮大な社会実験の場として捧げた。
He dedicated his life itself as a venue for one grand social experiment.
Uses profound, philosophical phrasing (人生そのものを...捧げた).
Colocações comuns
Frases Comuns
Frequentemente confundido com
Expressões idiomáticas
Fácil de confundir
You gain experience by living; you do an experiment to test a theory.
An exam tests your knowledge; an experiment tests a hypothesis.
Sounds similar but lacks the double 'k'. Completely different meaning.
Verification is the goal; the experiment is the method.
A casual verb for trying things; experiment is a formal noun/verb for structured testing.
Padrões de frases
Como usar
Implies a structured attempt to find an answer, unlike 'tamesu' which is just trying something out.
'Jikkendai' (guinea pig) is often used jokingly among friends.
Highly common. Trying a new hairstyle can be a 'jikken'.
- Saying 'jiken' instead of 'jikken', accidentally saying 'incident' instead of 'experiment'.
- Using 実験 when talking about a life experience (should be 経験).
- Using 実験 when talking about a school exam (should be 試験).
- Saying 実験を作る (to make an experiment) instead of 実験をする (to do an experiment).
- Using the particle に incorrectly (e.g., ネズミに実験する instead of ネズミを使った実験をする).
Dicas
Use with 行う for Formal Writing
If you are writing an essay or a report, upgrade your vocabulary by swapping する for 行う. '実験を行う' sounds much more professional. It shows you understand the academic register. Save '実験する' for speaking with friends.
Master the Double Consonant
The difference between 実験 (jikken - experiment) and 事件 (jiken - incident) is just one beat of silence. Practice clapping three times: Ji - (clap/pause) - ken. This physical action helps cement the rhythm in your brain.
Learn the Opposites
A great way to remember 実験 is to learn its conceptual opposites. While an experiment is practical and physical, 理論 (riron - theory) is abstract. You do a 実験 to prove a 理論.
The Metaphorical Guinea Pig
Impress native speakers by using the word 実験台 (jikkendai). If a friend wants to practice cutting hair and asks you to be the model, you can jokingly say '私を実験台にしないで！' (Don't use me as a guinea pig!).
Success and Failure
Always pair 実験 with 成功 (seikou - success) and 失敗 (shippai - failure). Remember the particles: 実験に成功する (succeed IN the experiment) but 実験が失敗する (the experiment fails).
Spotting Compound Words
実験 loves to combine with other words. When reading, look out for 実験室 (lab), 実験者 (experimenter), and 実験的 (experimental). Knowing the base word helps you guess the meaning of the compound.
Jiyuu Kenkyuu
If you talk to Japanese people about their childhood, ask about their 'Jiyuu Kenkyuu' (Independent Research) during summer vacation. It almost always involved a fun, messy 実験. It's a great conversation starter.
Not an Exam
Never use 実験 when you mean a school test. If you say 'I failed my experiment' when you meant 'I failed my math test', people will think you blew up the science lab. Use 試験 (shiken) or テスト (tesuto) for exams.
Describing Purpose
Use the structure '〜を証明するための実験' (An experiment to prove ~). This is a highly versatile sentence pattern that instantly makes your Japanese sound more advanced and logical.
News Keywords
When watching Japanese news, listen for 臨床実験 (clinical trial) during medical segments and 実証実験 (field trial) during business segments. These are high-frequency words in modern media.
Memorize
Mnemônico
Imagine a JEEP (ji) and a KEN (ken) doll doing a science EXPERIMENT. Ji-k-ken!
Origem da palavra
Sino-Japanese (On'yomi)
Contexto cultural
Japanese companies prefer rigorous 'Jisshou Jikken' before launching products to avoid failure.
Summer vacation homework often includes a 'Jiyuu Kenkyuu' (Independent Research), which usually involves a 'Jikken'.
The 'Mad Scientist' is a beloved anime trope, always talking about their 'Jikken'.
Pratique na vida real
Contextos reais
Iniciadores de conversa
"最近、何か面白い実験をしましたか？"
"子供の頃、理科の実験は好きでしたか？"
"動物実験についてどう思いますか？"
"新しい料理の実験をするのは好きですか？"
"もしタイムトラベルの実験ができたら、参加しますか？"
Temas para diário
Write about a science experiment you remember from school.
Describe a 'life experiment' you recently tried (like a new diet or routine).
Write your opinion on animal testing.
Invent a crazy experiment you would do if you had unlimited money.
Explain the difference between an experiment and an experience in your own words.
Perguntas frequentes
10 perguntasYes, metaphorically. If you are mixing weird ingredients together just to see what it tastes like, you can jokingly call it a 'ryouri no jikken' (cooking experiment). However, if you are just tasting a new dish at a restaurant, use 'tamesu' (to try) instead. Using 'jikken' implies a level of active creation and unknown outcome. It adds a playful, 'mad scientist' tone to your cooking.
Both mean 'to conduct an experiment'. 'Jikken suru' is the standard, everyday expression used in conversation and casual writing. 'Jikken o okonau' is much more formal and objective. You will see 'okonau' in academic papers, news reports, and official business documents. If you are writing a university report, always use 'okonau'.
They share the second kanji, 験 (ken), and sound somewhat similar to English speakers. Furthermore, in English, we sometimes say 'I experienced something new' and 'I experimented with something new' in similar contexts. In Japanese, the line is strict: 経験 (keiken) is a life experience, while 実験 (jikken) is a scientific or structured test.
The small 'tsu' indicates a geminate (double) consonant. You must briefly pause your breath before pronouncing the 'k' sound. Think of it as a tiny hiccup. Say 'ji', hold your breath for a split second, then say 'ken'. If you don't pause, it sounds like 'jiken' (incident).
It is primarily a noun. However, like many Sino-Japanese nouns, it becomes a verb when you attach 'suru' (to do) to it. This makes it a 'verbal noun' or 'suru-verb'. You can use it as a standalone noun (e.g., 'The experiment is fun') or as a verb (e.g., 'I will experiment').
Literally, it means 'experiment table' or 'lab bench'. However, it is almost always used metaphorically to mean a 'test subject' or 'guinea pig'. If a company tests a buggy new app on its employees, the employees might complain that they are being used as a 'jikkendai'.
No, this is a direct translation error from English. In Japanese, you do not 'make' an experiment. You 'do' (suru) or 'conduct' (okonau) an experiment. If you are talking about the planning phase, you can say 'jikken o keikaku suru' (plan an experiment) or 'jikken no junbi o suru' (prepare for an experiment).
This is a very common term in Japanese business and technology news. It translates to 'demonstration experiment' or 'field trial'. It refers to testing a new technology or system (like self-driving buses or a new payment system) in the real world to prove that it works before officially launching it.
The standard phrase is 実験結果 (jikken kekka). This is a compound noun. You can use it in sentences like 'Jikken kekka o matomeru' (to summarize the experimental results) or 'Jikken kekka kara...' (From the experimental results...). It is a crucial phrase for B1/B2 learners.
Absolutely. The 'mad scientist' is a very common character archetype in anime and manga. They will frequently talk about their 'osoroshii jikken' (terrifying experiments) or 'himitsu no jikken' (secret experiments). It is a staple word in sci-fi and fantasy genres.
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Summary
実験 (jikken) is your go-to word for any kind of experiment, from formal science lab tests to casually trying out a new recipe. Remember to use it with する (suru) or 行う (okonau), and don't confuse it with 経験 (keiken - experience)!
- Used for scientific tests.
- Combines with 'suru' to mean 'to experiment'.
- Means trying something new to see what happens.
- Different from 'experience' (keiken).
Use with 行う for Formal Writing
If you are writing an essay or a report, upgrade your vocabulary by swapping する for 行う. '実験を行う' sounds much more professional. It shows you understand the academic register. Save '実験する' for speaking with friends.
Master the Double Consonant
The difference between 実験 (jikken - experiment) and 事件 (jiken - incident) is just one beat of silence. Practice clapping three times: Ji - (clap/pause) - ken. This physical action helps cement the rhythm in your brain.
Learn the Opposites
A great way to remember 実験 is to learn its conceptual opposites. While an experiment is practical and physical, 理論 (riron - theory) is abstract. You do a 実験 to prove a 理論.
The Metaphorical Guinea Pig
Impress native speakers by using the word 実験台 (jikkendai). If a friend wants to practice cutting hair and asks you to be the model, you can jokingly say '私を実験台にしないで！' (Don't use me as a guinea pig!).
Exemplo
実験を行います。
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分析
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原子
A1Um átomo é a unidade básica de toda a matéria. É a menor unidade de um elemento químico.
引力
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細菌
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繁殖
A1A reprodução ou multiplicação de animais, plantas ou microorganismos. Não é usado para humanos.
炭素
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触媒
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塩素
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解明
A1Esclarecimento, elucidação. O ato de resolver um mistério ou esclarecer um problema complexo.
