How to say "mobile" in Japanese

Choosing the right word
  • 可動かどうCommon
    no-adjectiveCovers 'mobile' as 'moveable': something capable of moving or being moved, typically a part, joint, or section of machinery or equipment rather than something actually traveling.
  • 移動いどうJLPT N3approx.Common
    prenominal modifierCovers 'mobile' in the sense of moving or traveling — movement or transfer from one place to another, so it suits something that gets around or is in transit.
  • 機動きどうCommon
    prenominal modifierCovers 'mobile' as nimble, agile, or quick to respond: the ability to move and react fast, so it fits talk of agility, maneuverability, or swift response.

Use 可動 for something capable of moving or being moved, 移動 for movement or travel from one place to another, and 機動 for agility, maneuverability, or speed of response.

Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only

Japanese equivalents
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JLPT vocabulary levels are community estimates, not official (no official lists have been published since the 2010 revision).

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