How to say "motor" in Japanese

Choosing the right word

モーターJLPT N2approx.Common
nounThe everyday word for a motor, typically the electric motor that drives machines, appliances, and vehicles; it can also stand for an engine, making it the usual choice in ordinary contexts.
そのボートは動力どうりょくにモーターを使用しようしている。↗
The boat uses a motor for the power.
原動機げんどうきCommon
nounA technical term used in engineering contexts for a motor as a machine that produces mechanical power; in everyday talk about the motor of a device or vehicle, モーター is the natural choice instead.

Choose 「モーター」 for the everyday sense of motor, especially the electric motor in machines and vehicles; 原動機 is the technical engineering term for a motor as a power-producing machine, suited to technical contexts.

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

Japanese equivalents

モーターmotor
原動機げんどうきmotor
モートルmotor

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

Say it right, write it right