How to say "prototype" in Japanese

• 原型げんけいCommon
  nounThe 'prototype' as an original model or first form on which later versions are based; it also means 'archetype'. Use it for the original design itself, as of a machine or vehicle.
• 試作しさくCommon
  noun, suru verb, transitive verbThe 'prototype' as a trial-made test piece: something produced experimentally to see how it performs. It also refers to the act of trial manufacture itself, so it suits product development and testing contexts.

Use 原型 for a prototype as an original model or first form from which copies are made, and 試作 for a prototype as a trial-made test piece or for the act of trial manufacture itself.

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

• 原型げんけいmodel
• 試作しさくtrial manufacture
• プロトタイプprototype
• プロトprototype
• 祖型そけいarchetype
• 実験システムじっけんシステムtrial system
• 基本形きほんけいfundamental form