How to say "absorption" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 吸収きゅうしゅうnoun, suru verb, transitive verbThe default word for absorption, whether a liquid takes in moisture or a person takes in knowledge or nutrients; it also covers suction and attraction. Choose this for most senses.この布は水をよく吸収する。↗This cloth absorbs water well.
- 専念せんねんnoun, suru verb, intransitive verbCovers absorption in the sense of being absorbed in a task—giving undivided attention or devoting oneself to work or study. Not for physical absorption; it is about mental concentration.
- 吸引きゅういんnoun, suru verb, transitive verbAbsorption in the sense of suction or aspiration, drawing in liquid, air, or the like through suction. Use it for mechanical or medical contexts rather than general taking-in.
- 同化どうかnoun, suru verb, transitive verb, intransitive verbAbsorption as assimilation, where one thing is absorbed into another and becomes part of it, such as a group or culture absorbing people or influences. The emphasis is on becoming one.
- 併合へいごうnoun, suru verb, transitive verb, intransitive verbGlossed as absorption via merger, amalgamation, or melding, but its core meaning is joining into one. It is really a word for mergers and is seldom the word you want for ordinary absorption.
Use 吸収 for physical or figurative taking-in, 専念 for absorbed attention, 吸引 for suction-like drawing in, 同化 for assimilation, and 併合 mainly for mergers rather than absorption.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
See also
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